Delta Magazine March/April 2023

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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It may seem like just a 昀ight, but it is far more than that.

Each journey is the culmination of careful planning, 昀awless execution, and an unbridled passion to provide the best in world-class customer service. It is in each friendly handshake with the industry’s best pilots and it is in the calm that takes over as you settle into your seat aboard a perfectly appointed aircraft, all Owned and Operated by NICHOLAS AIR. From the personalized attention to our commitment to providing the highest quality aircraft to the Most Re昀ned Set of Private Flyers, the NICHOLAS AIR team is solely focused on one mission--- yours.

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Publisher: J. Scott Coopwood Editor: Cindy Coopwood Managing Editor: Pam Parker Director of Special Projects: Kelli Williams Contributing Editors: Hank Burdine, Maude Schuyler Clay, Lea Margaret Hamilton, Jim “Fish” Michie, Brantley Snipes, Roger Stolle Digital Editor: Phil Schank Consultant: Samir Husni, Ph.D. Graphic Designers: Sandra Goff, Maggi Mosco Contributing Writers: Jim Beaugez, Sherry Lucas, David Malatesta, Susan Marquez, Leanna Miller, Robert McFarland, Jr., Mary Lee McKee, Angela Rogalski, Kelli Williams, Amile Wilson, Keith Wood Photography: Rory Doyle, Abe Draper, Timothy Ivy Account Executives: Joy Bateman, Melanie Dupree, Cristen Hemmins, Kristy Kitchings, Wendy Mize, Ann Nestler, Cadey True Circulation: Holly Tharp Accounting Manager: Emma Jean Thompson POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to

Delta Magazine, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732

ADVERTISING: For advertising information, please call (662) 843-2700 Delta Magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited materials or photos and in general does not return them to sender. Photography obtained for editorial usage is owned by Delta Magazine and may not be released for commercial use such as in advertisements and may not be purchased from the magazine for any reason. All editorial and advertising information is taken from sources considered to be authoritative, but the publication cannot guarantee their accuracy. Neither that information nor any opinion expressed on the pages of Delta Magazine in any way constitutes a solicitation for the sale or purchase of securities mentioned. No material in Delta Magazine may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publication. Delta Magazine is published bimonthly by Coopwood Magazines, Inc., 125 South Court St., Cleveland, MS 38732-2626. Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, MS and additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Delta Magazine, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732-0117. Delta Magazine (USPS#022-954)

Delta Magazine is published six times a year by Coopwood Magazines, Inc. EDITORIAL & BUSINESS OFFICE ADDRESSES: Mailing Address: PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732 Shipping Address: 125 South Court Street, Cleveland, MS 38732 E-mail: publisher@deltamagazine.com editor@deltamagazine.com

deltamagazine.com Subscriptions: $28 per year ©2023 Coopwood Magazines, Inc.

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Available at DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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from the editor

June Brides and Other Musings “For they say when you marry in June, you’re a bride all your life.”

–”June Bride” from the movie Seven Brides for Seven Brothers

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With Scott, my forever wedding date, at the rehearsal dinner for Henry Varner and Keely Shearer.

The Tennessee mountaintop setting for the wedding was stunning.

Celebrating the wedding festivities with dear friends Mimi Dossett and Mary Helen Varner —with more good times to come at William Dossett’s wedding later in the year!

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edding season is upon us again. If there is indeed a “wedding season.” We’ve all heard

of June weddings— it’s always been known as the most popular month for tying the knot. There are obvious reasons for this: school is out, the weather is pleasant, and families may be a little less busy and able to attend. Some cursory research taught me that June is named for the Roman goddess Juno, the goddess of marriage and childbirth. Therefore a wedding in Juno’s month was historically the most desirable.

But this begs the question—what about the rest of the year? Is there a “best” time to tie the knot?

According to some sites, September, October and November are increasingly popular wedding months. Clearly their researchers are not hunters or SEC football fans. I think this is self explanatory unless you want half your guests coming in late from the woods, or in the bar at the club watching the game on the TV during the reception—or both.

Should you choose to forge ahead a fall wedding, here are a couple of pro tips: • Check the fall football schedule and try to choose a bye week or at least a nonconference game • If the date must land on a major game day—have plenty of tvs set up around the venue.

Then there’s December—it seems like such a great idea. But take it from my experience as a December bride—it’s hard enough to find time to celebrate anniversaries, and once you have children, you very well may find yourself sitting in a dark school auditorium for the annual Christmas program, or the church Christmas cantata, or at an office party on your anniversary. Facts.

January and February? Possibly. Usually there are fewer conflicts and winter weddings can be less expensive with venues, planners, and caterers often being more available. A January wedding is something to look forward to after the holidays, and February is the month of love after all—although one study warns that getting married on Valentine’s Day itself brings with it a higher divorce rate. Ultimately, although they are not with out their negatives, and weather notwithstanding, these months are are worthy of consideration.

So—what to do?

Clearly no one is heeding any of these warnings or advice as is evidenced by my mailbox which issues forth save-the-date cards, engagement party, and wedding invitations year-round.

In this issue, our Wedding Showcase beginning on page 76 proves the point as well. In fact among our newlyweds, there actually were far more weddings in October, November, and December than the other months, and only four in June! So much for statistics.

Here’s the takeaway. There is no wrong time of year to get married. Decide what is important to you about your big day, and get it on the books! In this day and age when some think weddings are an antiquated rite of passage, it is refreshing to see that they are alive and well in the Delta. And as a strong proponent of marrying young and short engagements, this warms my heart. Just in the past couple of years we’ve attended the nuptials of some of our dearest friends’ children, our god-son, and numerous nieces and nephews, with more already marked on the calendar!

We are excited to bring you pages and pages of our newlyweds’ spectacular weddings, from the rehearsal dinner to the reception. And if you are planning a wedding any time soon, hopefully you’ll de inspired by some of their ideas presented on our pages.

Here’s to setting a date, making the plans, and celebrating the beginning of new lives together! DM

Cindy Coopwood Editor @cindycoopwood | editor@deltamagazine.com

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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contents MARCH/APRIL 34

TIMOTHY IVY

Volume 20 No. 5

74

ELIZA KENNARD

departments

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30 BOOKS Reviews of new releases and what Deltans are reading now

34 ART

NICOLE LAMAR: Painting by the heart

40 MUSIC

TOMMY COLLIER: The son also rises

60 HOME

FIRMLY PLANTED BY DESIGN: Recently updated, the Meredith home in Clarksdale has grown and changed along with their family

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6 LEMON DESSERTS to enjoy all Spring long

WILL JACKS

RORY DOYLE

236 FOOD

features

46 Juke Joint Festival

242 YARD & GARDEN DO’S and DON’TS of Spring landscaping

244 HISTORY

Uncovering long forgotten Delta settlements

Clarksdale’s premier festival celebrates 20 years

52 Pure LOVE

Remembering Aunt Florence, the Salad Queen of the Delta

74 WEDDING SHOWCASE

Three’s a Charm: How to host three home weddings—in one year, page 76 Gift and Style Guide: Sharp fits, accessories, and gifts of the season, page 88 A Look Back: I do in the Delta, Page 96 Curated Wedding Photo Showcase, page 106 Formal Announcements, page 178 Engagement Announcements, page 230 Wedding Registry, page 233

ON THE COVER: Newlyweds Sarah Varner and Dillon Jones share a kiss after their mountaintop ceremony in Carbondale, Colorado. Photography: Lucy Baird Photography 10 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

in every issue 12 Letters 18 On the Road Where we’ve been, where we’re going next

22 Off the Beaten Path Roaming the real and rustic Delta

26 Hot Topics 246 Events 250 Delta Seen 256 The Final Word

by David Malatesta

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LETTERS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023

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William did not know anything about Jack’s music until I told him about five years ago.

I also enjoyed the piece on Jennifer Drinkwater. Keep up the good work!

Bob Bailey Yazoo City, Mississippi

Annual Tourism Issue • Air and Rail Travel in the Delta • Great American Road Trip • Road Trips for Delicious Sips

3WINTER SOUPS

I’m pretty sure I have never missed a single issue of Delta Magazine. They are all outstanding, but I feel compelled to mention the recent January/February issue.

It is absolutely the best one ever in my humble opinion! Richard Wiman always has interesting stories—I have read and sold many of his books in my store. “Two Men and a Porsche” is everyone’s dream trip and they did it well. Writer Michael Thompson and his family have long been friends, neighbors and colleagues of mine here in Yazoo. I enjoyed reading about them and remembering all the great things they have done. Congratulations on my personal favorite magazine of all time!

Max Sanders Yazoo City, Mississippi In the November/December issue of Delta Magazine, you included a review of the book The Preventorium by Susan Annah Currie.

I was there for several months in 1946 or 47. I was five or six years old. I remember meeting a boy from Memphis and we became friends.

They tied us to a tree one time to keep us from running away. At night they would come by and check you to see if you wet the bed. I would love to know of any other child that went there. Didn’t know it had closed.

Leighton Miller Hattiesburg, Mississippi Happy New Year and congratulations on another great issue of Delta Magazine!

I loved seeing my own family included in the travel piece; Richard Wiman is a good friend and, of course I have ties with the Thompsons and the Blue Front crowd.

Jack Owens was also my dear friend, and was the late Federal Judge William Barbour’s cattle man for many years.

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Thank you oh so much for featuring me in the January/February issue of Delta Magazine! I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s truly a dream come true.

Mary Lee McKee did a wonderful job of capturing my work and Anna Satterfield’s photos were just stunning—she has a way with light. I so appreciate the opportunity, as I’ve long admired your commitment to showcasing the diversity and many cultures of the Delta. Thank you, thank you!

Jennifer Drinkwater Ames, Iowa Horse and Hound

PHOTO BY BROOKE BALLENGER

Each year, horses are gathered and hounds are turned loose as the Longreen hunt gets underway. Longreen Foxhounds was started in 1957 with PennMarydel hounds brought from Maryland by Master of Foxhounds Bart Mueller, and was recognized by the national Master of Foxhounds Association in 1962. Located in Rossville, it remains one of Tennessee’s most prominent hunting organizations. The opening meet this year took place near Como, Mississippi, at Birdlands Plantation. Originally hunting only fox and the rare deer, the pack now pursues coyote in a territory stretching from Clarksdale to Blytheville, Arkansas, between the Mississippi River and the levee. Some of the generous landowners who donate the land ride along on their own horses joining in the gallop. DM

I always enjoy Delta Magazine. Ten years as an Episcopal priest at St. James’ Greenville gave me a special affection for this place. Your last issue contained much that drew my attention.

Opening to “Horse and Hound” brought back memories of blessing of the hounds at the Whitworth Hunt outside Canton in the 70s. As I began the blessing service, one of the hounds slowly walked over to me, lifted his leg, and urinated on my vestments!! There is a picture in the clubhouse!! I was not invited to return.

Continuing on, I loved your piece on Jennifer Drinkwater, and love and admire her work.

Reading about Savannah Engel and her PR career brought back memories of the marriage of her parents, Lee and Jan, which I performed at St. Andrew’s Cathedral.

And there’s always HANK!!

Keep up the great work!

David Elliott Jackson, Mississippi

Y’all Said SOCIAL MEDIA COMMENTS @deltamagazine

We Asked...

What is the wedding gift you’ve used the most?

Family Bible…gifted almost fifty years ago. All major family events, births, marriages, deaths are recorded!! – Glenda Alford Pottery – Kay Williams McCarty bowl and platter – Edith Sledge Scholwinski My everyday flatware.

Fourty-four years in August and we use it everyday. Eight moves and only lost one fork! – Dianne Different

READER RESPONSE deltamagazine.com MUSIC “Sam, I just can’t play like you…”

LIBBY RAE WATSON COLLECTION

“Lil’ Podnuh, you ain’t supposed to play like me, ’cause you ain’t me. You are supposed to take that song and do it like you do it. You take that song and make it yours.” And through the years, Lil’ Podnuh, Libby Rae Watson, has been playing more like Sam Chatmon and performing his, and her own, blues most all of her life. And she is on a mission to continue performing and promoting the blues not only in Mississippi but all over the world.

And she is doing a jam-up fine job of it.

Libby Thompson grew up down on the Gulf Coast in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Her daddy was a dentist, and she was the youngest of three sisters and three brothers. Libby’s mother died when she was five years old, and the whole family was raised by their father. She started piano lessons in the third grade and was Stonewall Mays and Libby Rae jamming on the porch given a classical guitar by the sixth grade and learned three chords. in Coldwater, Mississippi.

(A lot of music can be played on only three chords!) In high school Libby started listening to the Allman Brothers Band, Taj Mahal, Bob Dylan and others, trying to understand and figure guitar, and they started playing and singing. She played a few out the blues. Once she realized what the blues really were, the songs that brought tears to his eyes because his mama used to sing repetitious rifts, the calls and responses, the soul and those songs to him. Libby Rae put a metal slide on her little finger, mournfulness of the real blues, she was hooked. She dug into the and she and Big Joe Williams sat in the shade in his car and played blues of Muddy Waters, listening, learning, and trying to figure the blues. A young white gal from the Coast picking a National out what the songs really meant, how to truly understand them guitar while Big Joe Williams sang the blues was pure nirvana. and how to play them. She had grown up on the Mississippi Gulf Boys and girls, it just don’t get much better than that. Take Coast in an established, comfortable lifestyle and in an my advice, pull up the song written by Libby Rae affluent neighborhood. What did she know about Watson called “Big Joe.” You will end up with the blues? She had never picked cotton, plowed a tear in your eye and a smile on your face. a mule, hand pumped water from a pitcher A young white gal But it was not until Libby Rae came to pump out back. She didn’t know the cold from the Coast picking a Hollandale and met the legendary Sam and lonely, muddy path to the hog pen or to the privy, but her mother had died National guitar while Big Joe Chatmon, an original member of the Mississippi Sheiks, that she met her when she was five years old and that’s the Williams sang the blues zenith. She came into his living room after blues! She was just a cute little hippie chick meeting him one day with five guys, all with from down on the Coast who liked the blues was pure nirvana. their guitars, to play with and learn a little from and was wanting and searching to know more the great bluesman. After a while, Sam told the about them. It didn’t take her long. boys to just “get on out of here; I’m gonna show her In 1973, while attending dental hygienist school in something.” Sam Chatmon started playing “Whiskey Blues.”

Jackson, Libby met Bobby Ray Watson from Pleasant Hill, When Sam told Libby Rae Watson to take those songs and “make Mississippi. Bobby Ray had grown up in the North Mississippi them your own,” he basically gave her permission to do just that. hill country around R. L. Burnside, Mississippi Fred McDowell, “Lil’ Podnuh, one note with feeling gives you more satisfaction Johnny Woods and others. He played the guitar and the than all the technique.” She had been told by Big Joe Williams to harmonica. There Libby heard a different kind of blues from the play with finger picks to make the music loud in the Northeast traditional Delta blues. The young aspiring couple were immersed Mississippi hill country style, while Sam Chatmon told her to use in the hard driving, pulsing Northeast Mississippi hill country no picks but to play with her natural fingers for a natural sound. blues, unlike the slow and mournful wails of the Delta blues. In Libby Rae Watson had crawled up into the lap of the elder Memphis they met Memphis Piano Red, Mose Vinson, and Furry statesman of the blues, a gentleman and a gentle man. She would Lewis. Together their young, searching hearts were exploding with listen and learn, and she would carry his music and his rollicking the remnants and the vestiges of the last of the great bluesmen. finger picking style, along with her own music and songs, all over Some were still performing, and some had come back from the world. I also had met Sam Chatmon back then, and I can obscurity to play once again during the blues resurgence of the truthfully say that without Libby Rae’s love and devotion for this 1960s at folklife festivals and music gatherings. great bluesman, a lot of his music and his aura would be lost. She While traveling in Northeast Mississippi, Libby Rae had heard is carrying it on wherever and whenever she plays. about Big Joe Williams. She found him sitting in his car on top of a hill under a big shade tree. She got in with her National

Libby Rae Watson Hippie chick from Pascagoula with deep Delta ties

Libby Rae Watson with her 1931 Duolian National guitar

PETER LEE

BY HANK BURDINE

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2023 | 43

January-February Issue 2023 Libby Rae Watson by Hank Burdine ~ This is an awesome article about my friend and neighbor Libby Rae Watson. She is an amazing person, and musician, and she makes Pascagoula proud. Love you Libby. – Marie Singleton Congratulations Libby Rae; this is a great article!

I’m proud of what you have accomplished. Keep on keepin’ on, you’re doing good. Have fun and enjoy life! HAPPY NEW YEAR!! – Mickie Albin Baria Libby, I love this. You make us Coastians proud! I’d love to see you in Helena sometime! A Mississippi transplant. – Lois Brabston Lovely article! – Erin Lee

SEND COMMENTS AND LETTERS TO: editor@deltamagazine.com or Delta Magazine PO Box 117,Cleveland, MS 38732 DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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French Connection

PHOTO BY THROUGH THE GLASS PARIS

Just married and ready to take on the world, Clarksdale native Ben Frazer and his bride, Makensie Holland, are stepping— figuratively and literally—into their future together. They began their journey of a lifetime at the Shangri La Hotel in Paris, the former home of Prince Roland Bonaparte. DM

Campbell Clinic is coming to Oxford.

The region’s best orthopaedic specialists are coming to Oxford – Spring 2023.

A P P LY H E R E :

Our new location is hiring now!

Incredible Employee Culture, Amazing Benefits, and Time-Off Options.

CampbellClinic.com

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Campbell Clinic Orthopaedics

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ON THE ROAD

where we’ve been, where to go next

WATER VALLEY

VICKSBURG

Cruisers and canoers with a destination in mind. – VISIT VICKSBURG

As the old saying goes, “Have a Coke and a smile.” – JIM HENDRIX

CHATHAM

PHOTO OPS BLACK ROCK, AR

Roy’s Store is your one-stop shop for good eats and all the supplies you need for a day on Lake Washington! – DELTA MAGAZINE

LEFLORE COUNTY

Not your average lemonade stand. – LARRY HENDERSON Bryant’s Grocery became the first stop on the Mississippi Freedom Trail in 2011. – MECHELLE GENTRY WILSON

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MERIDIAN

MARKS

Ode to American soul singer and lead voice on the famous song, “My Girl”. – LARRY HENDERSON

LYON

The cook, not the recipe, brings the soul to the food. – KAREN PULFER FOCHT

& FUNKY STOPS BEULAH

Recognition for what many consider the first rock ‘n’ roll song. – VISIT CLARKSDALE

MEMPHIS

A jalopy in its permanent parking spot. – SEAN JOHNSON

Bird’s eye view of the mighty Mississippi in the city where Elvis lived. – DIXON DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY Instagram users, follow @deltamagazine

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH roaming the real and rustic Delta

HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY Rich With Musical History and Famous Performers

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ERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY, LOCATED JUST THREE MILES FROM GRACELAND IN MEMPHIS, has a long history as a

MIKE MCELYA

famous nightclub. Originally built in 1891, the building began as a dry goods store until it started operating as a juke joint in the 1940s. By the early 1950s, it had become a full-fledged night club.

Everyone has played there—from Johnny Cash, to Carl Perkins, Fats Domino, B.B. King, Charlie Rich, and even Elvis. In the 1980s, the club was a regular hangout spot for rocker Jerry Lee Lewis, who lived in nearby Nesbit, Mississippi.

Hernando’s Hide-A-Way was named for a song from the 1950s musical, The Pajama Game. It operated successfully for sixty years before closing as a public venue in 2006, but remained open for limited private events. In 2019, country singer/songwriter Dale Watson and his wife, Celine Lee, reopened the club and it took off again until 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

Memphis-based Tandem Restaurant Partners stepped in and joined forces with Watson and Lee to ensure the continuation of the historic venue.

The club has a unique, moody vibe and is full of historic memorabilia giving it a nostalgic, throwback feeling. The food menu is by far a step above your typical bar food—and word on the street is the bacon cheeseburger is a thing of beauty!

The club now features a mixed array of musical performers that often include Dwayne Burnside, Grace Askew, The Shade Dialos, and Colby Acuff.

Hernando’s Hide-A-Way is a must-see attraction. Not only for it’s history, but for its commitment to providing top-notch entertainment and great food to boot.

3210 Old Hernando Road, Memphis, Tennessee 901.509.2352 worldfamoushernandoshideway.com Musicians from a variety of genres have performed at Hernando’s Hide-A-Way since its inception as a juke joint in the 1940s.

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INGRAM’S FOOD MART & THE BLUE MAGNOLIA Truck Stop Hotspot and Old School Sports Bar

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HOSE IN SEARCH OF FRIENDLY SERVICE AND AMAZING FOOD NEED ONLY LOOK FOR THE ELECTRIC BLUE BUILDING with oak wood smoke pouring off the parking lot, and Ingram’s Food Mart will take care of your cold beer, hot food, and snacks for the road. Farmers pull their tractors on the shoulder of Highway 444 in downtown Duncan, a small Delta town of only a few hundred, to order their bestsellers: rib tips (small or large, “sauce on” or “sauce off”), or a hamburger with seasoned fries.

“Our business sorta goes with the seasons,” says Eugene Ingram, owner of Ingram’s, who welded his first grill for himself when he was 18 years old.

Newly reopened in 2019, Ingram’s carries milk, eggs, and an interesting shelf selection—like variety flavor Tootsie Roll grab bags, along with Gatorades, Snapples, and individual sleeves of saltines. Miss Nicole runs the front and her caramel, strawberry, and lemon cakes sell by the slice. “The out-of-town people say they like it here because it’s clean, nice, and the food smells good,” she says. And when asked what makes his barbecue so popular, “that would be the flavor Above, in addition to the menu favorite rib tips, Ingram’s also carries a small selection of grocery items and twenty-five cents popsicles. At right, Eugene Ingram grilling chicken on and the tenderness,” says Ingram. the same grill he welded twenty-seven years ago at age 18. Below, the Blue Magnolia is keeping things simple for sports aficionados and anyone else looking for a good time.

113 East Main Street, Duncan; 662.550.5024

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HE RECIPE FOR A GREAT SPORTS BAR IS THE PEOPLE WHO COME TO HANG OUT AND THE TEAMS THEY WATCH. The Blue Magnolia, Greenwood’s

newest sports bar, has fully embraced these elements.

With TVs mounted above the bar, Karaoke on Friday nights, and two dart boards hanging on the walls, the new establishment is already a popular draw for the young crowd. Plus, the dart boards connect to the internet, allowing users to play darts against competitors all over the world.

Owner and operator Linda Osborne is a sports lover herself, with a special love for the Atlanta Braves, Mississippi State Football, and the Dallas Cowboys.

“We sit there and watch sports all day long,” she chuckles.

Located just one block from the Alluvian Hotel, the Blue Magnolia keeps things simple. No food, no liquor, just beer, setups, and good local friends.

Greenwood City Clerk by day, Osborne opens the bar every afternoon at 5:30 p.m. and keeps it open until the last customer leaves or 1 a.m. whichever comes first. “We have a good time,” she says. “We bet each other a dollar over who’s going to win! It’s all in good fun.”

417 Howard Street, Greenwood; 662.458.3174 DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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Winterize your home.

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Heating can account for 55% of your home energy usage – which means 55% of your energy bill. Entergy can help you control costs with a free home energy audit. We’ll seal costly air leaks to help keep you warmer and bills lower.

Schedule yours at entergy.com/answers.

A message from Entergy Mississippi, LLC ©2023 Entergy Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

24 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

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Commercial Banking | Treasury Management | Capital Markets | Wealth Management © 2020 Regions Bank. All loans and lines subject to credit approval, terms and conditions. | Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank.

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HOT TOPICS WATCH OUT WORLD! WATSON IS HERE Sumner musician/attorney releases debut album Watson Turnipseed, known artistically as WATSON, is a Sumner-raised singer-songwriter, attorney, and Farmer. The young rocker does not just tell folks he is from Mississippi—he tells them he is from the Mississippi Delta. With a well-honed cool-guy persona, the easygoing Watson does not have a guise. He really is doing it all. And he learned about the hard work of music production, and first heard the music, growing up on his family’s farm in Sumner.

His debut album, Swamp Pop Pop by WATSON, dropped Valentine’s Day 2023. Watson says many of the a recording studio. ideas for his music came to him while driving a tractor down Turnipseed’s debut album, Swamp Self-taught on a 1961 Kay Pop Pop. some long, dusty rows in Tallahatchie County. Like many, he Vanguard II Double Pickup and a left, and headed for a college education in Oxford, Mississippi. He piano man by ear, Watson’s first song on the eight-track LP, then exited the South, traveling to New York City where he lived “Glendora,” is about convincing a girl from London to follow him with several roommates and worked in construction, hammering back to the Delta. The hook goes, “Baby take a country ride, to at skyscrapers, until his family proposed the idea that he enroll in Glendora, Glendora, we adore ya.” law school. That move sent Watson back to Ole Miss and then to But music is not a side-job for Watson. Swamp Pop Pop the UK, where an English barber introduced him to a buddy with features an impressive lineup of cohorts like Kevin Scott on bass,

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Jelani Bauman—composed trumpet lines, Nate Rocco on guitar, and producer Paulie “Ferrari” Schoen. Recorded in Nashville, New Orleans, and Los Angeles, the WATSON sound: a mix of Delta blues, pop, R&B, indie rock, and jazz, is showcased on the lead single, “Dear Margot.” He filmed a music video for the song with a seaplane over the Gulf of Mexico featuring Grammynominated Aurélien Barnes.

Watson still shows up to work on the farm and recently opened a law firm in his hometown of Sumner.

Instagram: @iamwatsonmusic; Listen on Spotify and iTunes

MUSIC TOURISM CONVENTION To be held in Cleveland April 11–14 What’s the musical genome that ties together some of the greatest hits from artists Avicii and Moby to Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones?

It’s the Delta blues.

This unique American sound came to life in the land where music legend Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul to the devil for superior guitar skills, and is the home-ground to some of the legends who laid the foundation of what would become Rock & Roll.

On April 11–14, the Music Tourism Convention will be held in Cleveland. Hosted by Music Cities Events and Visit Mississippi, it will gather a group of 300+ delegates from all over the world to discuss how music can be used to promote a destination’s branding and attract investment to the area, while strengthening the local community.

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The event will cover topics such as best practices to develop an attractive music destination, successful music museums, the production of festivals as part of a Music Tourism Strategy, and the future of music tourism. musiccitiesevents.com/speakers-cleveland-mtc

MISSISSIPPI MAKERS FEST Spend a day celebrating the state’s rich and diverse music and art This May marks the return of the Mississippi Makers Fest, a celebration of the music and art of our home state, at the Two Mississippi Museums in downtown Jackson. Last year’s inaugural festival was celebrated with an impressive turnout, including more than fifty vendors, artists, and musicians. The Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH) is thrilled to bring this free festival back to the metro area to honor the rich culture of the state.

Mississippi Makers Fest will not be celebrated solely by Mississippians but also by people across the region, as visitors from the southeast will come to honor our state alongside us. Attendees are invited to celebrate regional artisans and enjoy live music, make-andtake activities, food trucks, and more. A powerhouse lineup is already slated for this year including headliner Cedric Burnside, the Kudzu Kings, the Bass Drum of Death, Track45, and 5th Child. The Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum will be open and free for visits thanks to a sponsorship from Southern Beverage.

Mississippi Makers Fest will be held at the Entergy Plaza at the Two Mississippi Museums and along North Street in downtown Jackson on Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 10 a.m. to

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6 p.m. The festival is brought to you by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. Sponsors include Southern Beverage Company, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, the Foundation for Mississippi History, State Street Group, Visit Mississippi, Regions Bank, Lucid Ink Printing, Mississippi Tent & Party Rental, and radio stations Y101, Your Country US96, Mix 98.7, 93.5 The Legend, Blues 93.1, and 102.1 The Box. More information can be found at msmakersfest.mdah.ms.gov.

222 North Street, #2205, Jackson 601.576.6800 info@mdah.ms.gov

JOHNSTON HILL CREAMERY Unique and authentic delights Fret not, turophiles, because the gourmet and custom cheese market recently became more accessible with the opening of Johnston Hill Creamery in Oxford.

Owner Kelly Jeffus, a professional cook and selfproclaimed cheese lover, took her passion for consumption and turned it in to a craft. The Johnston Hill Creamery name is an ode to Jeffus’s grandparents, Janice and Jimmy Johnston, who instilled in her values such as hard work, determination, and respect— which she carries through to her shop and products.

All of the cheese products that come from the creamery are made by hand, using traditional methods and aged in-house in a 150 squarefoot cheese cave and only consisting of milk and cream

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purchased locally with no added preservatives.

In addition to cheese by the pound, the Creamery also offers ready-made charcuterie boards, baked goods, salads and sandwich trays. They also have an assortment of condiments such as jalapeño honey jam, pepper jelly, and house-made mustard.

For those who are wanting to learn more about the fine art of cheese, the creamery holds classes there on location, as well as in other towns. The Traveler’s Hotel in Clarksdale held a recent tasting event, and there is another coming up in March for those that missed the first one. Workshops can be customized for a group, and can include wine and cheese pairings, cheese board building and styling, Ricotta making demonstrations and more.

1503 White Oak Lane, Suite B 662.419.9201 DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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BOOKS

Buzzworthy Comments

Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano (Dial Press) Ann Napolitano’s newest novel, Hello Beautiful, will remind you of Little Women in the best sense. Rich with three-dimensional characters and their three-dimensional relationships, this story is beautifully told.

Spanning decades, the story follows a Chicago family with four sisters and a man named William who gets taken into their fold. William is estranged from his family due to the neglect of his parents who suffered the loss of his older sister. He marries Julia, the eldest sister of the family, who is persistent in changing him into the man she wants him to be. The family’s saga unfolds with the realization that no one can be molded into Ann Napolitano anyone else’s expectations.

A generational deep dive into family dynamics, mental health, and loss, this novel is a truly gripping exploration of love. (Liza Jones) The Farewell Tour by Stephanie Clifford (HarperCollins) Stephanie Clifford’s talent really glows in her newest novel, The Farewell Tour. The story takes hold of the reader from the start and thoroughly entertains, even through its heaviest, darkest spots.

In 1980, Lillian Waters is a burned-out country music star who has a faltering voice and a drinking problem. Her best and brightest days are behind her, but she decides to go on one last tour which will culminate in Walla Walla, Washington, where she grew up, where she will face her past.

While she tours, she gives us the engrossing backstory: the escape from her hellish childhood, her youth in Tacoma, her songwriting years in Bakersfield, California, and finally her rise to stardom in Nashville.

Stephanie Clifford This novel is somehow fun and heartbreaking at the same time, with exquisite detail and surprising twists at the end. You can’t help but root for the flawed, broken heroine trying to find her way. (Liza Jones) Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane (HarperCollins) Dennis Lehane can show you Boston like no one else, and Small Mercies will make you think you are right in the middle of the city in the sweltering summer of 1974.

Amidst the racial unrest in Boston, during the busing protests after a judge ordered thorough integration of the Boston school system, a white mother, still grieving the loss of her son by drug overdose, cannot find her daughter. On the same night her daughter disappears, a Black man is said to have been killed by a subway train in a white neighborhood. When she tries Dennis Lehane desperately to find her daughter, it becomes clear that the two events are related. As she digs for the truth, the brutality of her neighborhood, and by extension her own self, is harshly revealed.

This is a breathless story, a rough ride you can’t get off, about racism and classism with a violent crime plot and characters so real, you could pinch them, or punch them. (Liza Jones)

We asked Facebook friends and Delta Magazine fan page group members to share with us the best love story they’ve ever read.

o Melba Cunningham Detletsen, retired financial advisor Eugene, Oregan

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier because it is also a dark Gothic mystery. I read it in high school and loved every page. The deceased wife, Rebecca, had a great impact on my life, strangely enough. o Julianne Bailey, attorney Cleveland, Mississippi

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is the best love story I’ve read. While Elizabeth ultimately fell in love with Mr. Darcy, she loved herself enough to refuse to lower her standards or settle for a “safe” marriage.

She stayed firm in her belief that she was worth more than what society told her she was worth and ended up with the happiest of happy ever afters. o Danielle Cox Morgan, Mississippi Tourism Executive Director Greenwood, Mississippi

Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel García Márquez. This book is perhaps an unconventional choice, but it captures the complexities of love in a beautify tragic and captivating way.

For the Record Books Delta Magazine fans are currently reading o Diane Crawford Jack and Lem

o Max Rapert 19 Minutes to Live

by David Pitts

by Lew Jennings

o Ricky Nobile Don’t Ever Stop Laughing

by Scott Poindexter

o Jim Simpson Crazy River

by Richard Grant

o Kevin James 1984

by George Orwell

o Otis Goodin A Gentlemen in Moscow

by Greg Iles

o Bill Boyd Robicheaux

by Amor Towles

by James Lee Burke

o Walter Herbison The Plant Paradox

o Celeste Cummins Rhymes A Man Called OVE

by Steven Gundry

o Brenda Grubb Deer Creek Drive: A Reckoning of Memory and Murder in the Mississippi Delta

by Beverly Lowry

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o Kat Allen Hilderbrand Dead Sleep

by Fredrik Blackman

o Margaret Womack Sexton Spare

by Prince Harry

Voices from the Soul by Joy Bateman (Self Published) In Voices From the Soul, author and illustrator Joy Bateman takes the reader on an intimate journey into her heart. Page after page of carefully chosen quotes are beautifully illustrated in vibrant watercolor images. Bateman, who is also author of several Art of Dining books, clearly spent time considering quotes that speak to her personally and handpicked those she felt would best portray her own path to happiness and well-being. Voices From the Soul is an uplifting, fun and heartfelt read that takes you on a journey of words to contemplate and treasure. (Special/DM Staff ) The Summer House at Larkspur by Kay Pritchett (Wild Rose Press) When Mosey Frye, real estate agent and amateur sleuth, hunts for a summer house on the grounds of an abandoned plantation, she finds not only the house but also skeletal remains at the bottom of an old cistern. That same day, news of the horrific stabbing death of an eremitic nun leaves the citizens of Hembree in hang-jawed shock. Given that the tumble-down estate belonged to the dead nun’s family, Mosey insists there must be a connection between the two events. But Police Chief Gus Olivera, predisposed against Mosey and the Church, scrambles to find a suspect among members of the clergy. Will Olivera solve one on his own? Or will his hopes be dashed when Mosey, once again, drops the clue that points to the killer? (Special/DM Staff ) Old Southwest to Old South by Mike Bunn and Clay Williams (University Press of Mississippi)

Mississippi’s foundational epoch—in which the state literally took shape—has for too long remained overlooked and shrouded in misunderstanding. Yet the years between 1798, when the Mississippi Territory was created, and 1840, when the maturing state came into its own as arguably the heart of the antebellum South, was one of remarkable transformation. Beginning as a Native American homeland subject to contested claims by European colonial powers, the state became a thoroughly American entity in the span of little more than a generation. In Old Southwest to Old South: Mississippi, 1798–1840, authors Mike Bunn and Clay Williams tell the story of Mississippi’s founding era in a sweeping narrative that gives these crucial years the attention they deserve.

Several key themes, addressing how and why the state developed as it did, rise to the forefront in the book’s pages. These include a veritable list of the major issues in Mississippi history: a sudden influx of American settlers, the harsh saga of Removal, the pivotal role of the institution of slavery, and the consequences of heavy reliance on cotton production. The book bears witness to Mississippi’s birth as the twentieth state in the Union, and it introduces a cast of colorful characters and events that demand further attention from those interested in the state’s past. A story of relevance to all Mississippians, Old Southwest to Old South explains how Mississippi’s early development shaped the state and continues to define it today. (Special/DM Staff ) DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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A mother’s

bravery.

Her son’s lasting

legacy.

Hear their

story.

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April 1 - May 14, 2023

THIS EXHIBIT IS CREATED BY

EMMETT TILL AND MAMIE TILL-MOBLEY INSTITUTE

mdah.ms.gov This project was made possible in part by The National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom, the Maddox Foundation in Hernando, MS, The Institute for Museum and Library Services [MH-249226-OMS-21], and The Historic Preservation Fund administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior [15.904].

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ART

NICOLE LAMAR Painting by the Heart Oxford artist’s love of color, confidence, and the outdoors are channeled into her distinct pieces

BY SUSAN MARQUEZ • PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIMOTHY IVY

n interesting path led artist Nicole Lamar to Oxford from Dallas, where she was raised. Ultimately she followed in her father’s footsteps, choosing to go to Ole Miss after high school, one of only two in her senior class of 1,400 who chose to attend Ole Miss for college.

“My dad was staying with an uncle in Jackson, and he literally hitchhiked to Oxford to go to Ole Miss. I heard that story all my life,” she laughs. The ride he hitched unknowingly changed his destiny and the family tree. Lamar adds, “The irony is that now there are tons of kids from Texas at Ole Miss!”

While she went to Ole Miss to earn a business degree, it didn’t take Nicole long to realize she wasn’t suited for that major. “I 34 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

NICOLE LAMAR

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couldn’t stand it. I decided I wanted to major in art instead, without really even understanding what that meant. I soon realized I was the luckiest person in the world to be given the opportunity to have Jere Allen as a professor.” Known as “the Mississippi Rembrandt,” Allen has had a number of solo exhibits at many notable institutes and galleries across the nation, and is now represented by the Carol Robinson Gallery in New Orleans.

“I still can’t get an eyeball or nose right,” says Nicole, “but Jere always encouraged me and said to just do what I could. He pointed out to me that I loved color. So he said I should just work on color.” Lamar notes that it was a profound lesson for her to realize what her passion or gift was and to concentrate just on that. “He was right.

Hearts have become the signature theme in Lamar’s work.

That was my thing, and it still is!”

Nicole had big aspirations for her life right out of school. “I went to New York twice, once while I was in college and immediately afterwards. I loved fabric and had always thought I’d work in fashion. I called my friend, Leslie Gordon, who worked for Cambridge Dry Goods, and she got me a job.” But Nicole fell in love with an Oxford guy, and she moved back to Mississippi. “I am so in love with my husband,” she laughs. “Then I had my babies, and I poured everything I had into them.”

She may not have been in New York City, but that didn’t stop Nicole from blooming where she was planted, using her artistic and creative talents. “I worked at Oxford Floral Company for several years,

and that allowed me to be creative. I also continued to paint, and that helped me to grow even more creatively.”

Now her four children, two boys and two girls, are grown, all four graduated from Ole Miss. “It was time for us to move to the country,” she says. Nicole and her husband moved into a small cabin about twenty miles from town on a private lake. “I love the outdoors, and the outside of our cabin is my favorite place in the world. My “studio” consists of three big pine trees. I have a nail on each one where I will pop on a canvas and paint. I just love it. When my painting begins to ‘tighten up,’ I don’t like it as much. I like to loosen up.”

Nicole uses acrylic paint that she applies layer by layer. “I love to paint on canvas and plywood— especially plywood, because I

love how the grooves in the wood show through.” Color is still Nicole’s thing, and she uses bright, bold splashes of color to create beautiful works of art. And like Jere Allen before her, she has encouraged many others to paint as well. “I know I’ve inspired others to pick up a paint brush, and that has made me happy on my journey. I have loved being a part of that process for someone else. What I tell others is that you don’t need to overthink it. You just simply have to start.”

“I paint by the heart, and I’m often known as the girl who paints hearts,” Nicole explains. In fact, hearts have become one of the signature themes of her work.

“Sometimes I write Bible verses on the canvas as well. I also paint some figures, mostly women’s faces, and usually very DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ABE DRAPER

Nicole with an abstract of a woman’s face.

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abstract. I really do have a love of color. I love how it makes me feel, and sharing that connection with others. I also love the creative process itself.”

Her first ever art show was held at City Grocery when she was twenty-five years old and pregnant with her second child. “It was all about motherhood, and the theme was ‘painting through the eyes of a child.’ I’ve done many shows since then, but that one held a very special place in my heart.”

As a young mother, Nicole was drawn to other artists and wanted to collect art for her home. “Oxford has always been a great place to do that on a budget, because of all the great student art for sale here. I have pieces I bought early on that I still love.”

Because of that, she wants her art to be accessible to anyone who wants to start or add to a collection. “I have pieces priced as low as $45.”

Collectors can find Nicole’s art at Oxford Floral Company, at Pickering Boxwood in Memphis, and she does commission work.

Through her art, Nicole has found another mission in life—sharing the importance of healthy living with others. “I have been a Juice Plus representative for eighteen years, and I’m pretty proud of that longevity.” Nicole says her focus on health has evolved into a real appreciation for what your body can do for you as a vehicle. “I believe our health is one of the greatest gifts we are given, and I also believe that people need to use their talents. And if you don’t

ABE DRAPER

ABE DRAPER

have health and vitality, you can’t fully use your gifts. Our gifts are something we need to use with all our might.”

Lamar feels so strongly about sharing that message with others that she recently presented her first ever conference in Oxford, the Hello Confidence workshop.

“I have been through it in life, and I know others are going through their own struggles. The whole workshop was about listening to whatever is tugging at your heart. Life goes by so fast, and unfortunately, I feel as if I learned that lesson later in life. I want to share this message with other women so they can recognize their gifts now, to develop confidence, and to take care of their bodies.

That way, they will be in a position to share their gifts with others.”

There is also no doubt that Nicole will be sharing her creative talents with her new grandson, recently born in Miami. “He’s our first grandson, and we are over the moon!”

Just a quick look at Nicole’s Instagram page, @nicoleglamar, will give you an idea of her positive personality. With messages like “your story needs to be heard,” and “now’s the time to go all in,” Nicole’s positive mantras are encouraging and inspirational.

For Nicole, confidence means a willingness to try—which she readily displays as she tries and tries in her upbeat videos to do a full handstand. “A challenge is good for you. It’s always the right time.” DM

Nicole’s works hang in many homes in the area, adding a pop of color wherever they are displayed.

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Discovering a healthier future for us all.

All for Your Health umc.edu/YourHealth

MUSIC

The Son Also Rises Tommy Collier shares a name with his late father, who was a respected artist in Greenville.

But he’s a creative force in his own right.

KH PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HAMMETT

BY JIM BEAUGEZ

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Tommy Collier’s dog, Hank, guards his guitar collection.

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It all began two years ago, when Collier lost his mother and sister within a year, following his father’s death in 2008. After he returned to Greenville to close his parents’ estate, he came across a cache of prints and paintings left by his father, Thomas Collier, who rendered scenes from the Delta and abroad with an impressionist’s hand.

He brought what remained of his father’s artistic legacy back with him to Nashville and had it appraised. “I started selling his prints, and people were buying them like crazy,” Collier says. “And so I got inspired to start painting again.”

As a kid, Collier would watch while his father turned blank canvases into colorful works of art, and in first grade, he won his first statewide art competition for a picture he drew of an underwater diver. More awards would follow, but in the meantime he discovered the Beatles and rock ‘n’ roll.

“I remember running through the house, and seeing ‘Help,’ the Beatles movie, playing on the TV,” he says. “I had this little toy gun and I can remember just falling on my knees and dropping the gun and looking at this.”

JOSHUA BLACK WILKINS

s a musician living in and around Nashville, Greenville native Tommy Collier has found himself in many unexpected situations, with plenty of valleys to accentuate the peaks in his career. But lately, even that has taken a sharp turn.

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That’s all it took. Collier threw himself into learning the guitar, and as a teenager even got some pointers on slide guitar from blues legend James “Son” Thomas, who happened to walk into the music store where he was working. He earned a scholarship to Delta State University, where he studied classical guitar, but dropped out to play music in a band—first with Steve Azar, and then with a modern rock band he formed and took to Nashville.

Although the band showcased for a number of record labels, they all wanted to change the band’s look and sound to fit in with the current music scene. Collier began to get publishing offers because he was the band’s main songwriter, and the band slowly dissolved after he signed a deal. Among his early collaborators as a full-time songwriter was Katy Hudson, a teenage singer-songwriter who was working on a contemporary Christian album. The record label folded during the rollout, causing her album to quickly fade, but Hudson would soon reinvent herself as Katy Perry.

“She was signed to Red Hill Records, and she was like 16 or 17 years old,” he recalls of his time working with the future pop icon.

“She knew, like, three chords on the guitar, so I started showing her a bunch of chords and teaching her Beatles tunes. We started writing some stuff, and I ended up producing a couple of tracks on her record.”

Collier played some shows with Hudson before her career arc shifted. But by then, he was an in-demand session guitar player, playing on demo and tracking sessions for Christian, country and Americana artists. One musician he connected with was Ashley McBryde, an Arkansas native who had moved to Nashville like Collier and scores of hopeful songwriters and musicians. The pair clicked, and he joined her band on lead guitar, eventually earning a Grammy award nomination for Best Country Album for his songwriting on McBryde’s 2018 album, Girl Going Nowhere.

Before the Covid pandemic hit in 2020, Collier turned down an opportunity to join her band full-time. The timing simply wasn’t

Above left, Collier during one of his many live performances. Left, a trio of his paintings are featured on a series of candles made by Nashville-based Melted Melodies.

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Beside Collier’s musical skills, he has also become known as a successful artist. Above are some of his creations depicting many Delta scenes.

right. “I was touring with her for a couple years, and at that time I was slowly getting songs together for my own thing,” he says. “And when it came time to make the big commitment, I really wanted to work on my own record.”

Collier came full circle with his music career, performing and producing his own music once again for an album that will come out later this year. But it happened in concert with his reentry into painting after twenty years, as well. As he eased back into his art, he went to his original source of inspiration—the Delta—and created works depicting cypress trees at Leroy Percy State Park near Hollandale, as well as the swamps, shotgun shacks and sunsets he knew growing up.

His new artwork sold fast, and he rededicated himself to the discipline, building collections of Delta scenes, horses in pastoral settings, and Nashville landmarks like the Bluebird Cafe and Ryman Auditorium. His music series includes paintings of B.B. King and the primary instruments of blues music—electric, acoustic and resonator guitars.

“I’ve had people all over the country order, from California to Washington to Florida,” he says. “A lot of people who have lived in the Delta but moved off have reached out because it takes them home.”

But the truth is that Collier is equally indebted to both muses; one often inspires the other. But working with paint as opposed to chords and lyrics affords him autonomy over the finished product.

“One good thing about artwork as opposed to music, unless you’re just sitting around writing songs on your own, you’re writing with other people or you’re producing a record and there’s still that

level of opinions,” he says with a laugh. “Whereas, when you’re painting and doing your art, it’s just you, that canvas, the paint and the brush, and it’s all on you, wherever you want to take it.”

These days, Collier’s creative work has led him to the rolling countryside south of Nashville, where he lives on a horse farm. The solitude gives him space to work at his own pace; part of the fun of earning a living as an independent creative is not having to force creativity into an arbitrary window of time. By his own account, an office job—and by extension, an increasingly cramped city life— was never in the cards for him.

“I can remember when I was really young, when I first started painting, my dad was at the table one day,” he says. “I said, ‘Dad, what are you doing?’ He goes, ‘I’m paying bills, son. You’re gonna have to do that one day when you grow up.’ And I looked at him and I said, ‘I ain’t never growing up!’ And I took off running.”

In addition to his forthcoming solo album and his growing collection of visual art, he’s also licensing songs for television and movies, like the Netflix original “The Ranch,” which starred Ashton Kutcher, Sam Elliott and Elisha Cuthbert. A client recently commissioned him to give a custom paint job to an entire upright piano, and a trio of his paintings are featured on a series of candles made by Nashville-based Melted Melodies.

“It’s weird how your journey goes,” he says. “You have an idea of what you’re gonna do and it seems like you kind of go down all kinds of different trails and backroads to get where you’re supposed to be.”

DM

thecolliercollection.com, tommycolliermusic.com DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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Juke Joint Festival

Celebrates 20 Years

BY ROBERT MCFARLAND, JR.

Twenty years ago this April, a Clarksdale star was born.

Its name? Juke Joint Festival.

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First poster from 2004 Juke Joint Festival.

RORY DOYLE

For three days every April, downtown Clarksdale is blocked off as thousands from all over the world attend the annual Juke Joint Festival. Right, Clarksdale’s latest blues sensation, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, performs at one of the past festivals.

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Top, Gip Gipson and Roger Stolle; bottom, Little Willie Farmer.

JOHN CLARK FOUNDED CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI IN 1848, WHEN HE BOUGHT LAND IN THE AREA AND STARTED A TIMBER BUSINESS. The town became a large trading center in the northern part of the Mississippi Delta. Years later, Clarksdale earned the title “The Golden Buckle on the Cotton Belt,” because of the fertile soil located around the town. Working the land took many people who often sang songs, which had been passed down for generations in the African American tradition, as they labored.

In 1902, Dr. Charles Peabody from Harvard came to Clarksdale to excavate several indian mounds located in Coahoma County. To conduct the excavations, Peabody needed some strong men. He hired a team of workers from Clarksdale and on their trek to the Stovall Plantation near the Mississippi River he made notes of the workers as they sang back and forth to each other while walking in pairs. These are the first written accounts we have of the beginnings of blues music.

Several of America’s most noted blues musicians (and others) hail from Coahoma County, such as John Lee Hooker, Ike Turner, Muddy Waters, Sam Cooke, Willie Brown, Son House, and Junior Parker. Today, a new generation of blues players have grown up in Clarksdale and Coahoma County. Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, who is currently receiving international recognition, is one of these young blues musicians.

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While agriculture is still a major part of Coahoma County, so is blues music. Today, people come from all over the world to visit Clarksdale to soak up the sites and sounds of where a major portion of this special music was born. Along the way, several music festivals have been created in Clarksdale that salute and feature blues music.

The father of these festivals is the annual Juke Joint Festival held each April. This year, the festival will celebrate its 20th birthday. For two decades, the Juke Joint Festival has grown in size and now thousands of people from as far away as Japan and Europe attend.

Described as “half blues festival, half small-town fair—and all about the Delta” the event is organized through the Clarksdale Downtown Development Association.

Founded by Roger Stolle and Bubba O’Keefe back in 2004, the first edition featured fifteen blues acts. This year’s 20th Anniversary will feature over 100 musical performances as well as monkeys riding dogs, racing pigs, street vendors, Southern food, workshops, children’s activities, student art/writing exhibits, and much more.

The main event will be held Saturday, April 15, with dozens of related events beginning that Thursday and ending Sunday night.

Top left, Big George; bottom left, Rev. Peyton; top right, Jimmy Duck Holmes; bottom right, the world-renowned blues player, Super Chikan.

“When we came up with the concept two decades ago, we hoped to do more than simply create ‘another’ blues festival,” says Stolle. “In addition to promoting blues culture, our festival mission was two fold: We aimed to put business into the businesses and mix locals with tourists from around the globe.

The results long ago blew away all of our expectations.”

By 2016, the Juke Joint Festival was attracting attendees from as many as forty-seven U.S. states, fifty-four Mississippi counties, and twenty-eight foreign countries. As the pandemic shut down events worldwide in the Spring of 2020, the Juke Joint Festival pivoted to a successful twenty-seven-act, nine-hour, live-stream event. By last year, in-person attendance had returned to near prepandemic levels with fans from at least forty-seven states and at least sixteen countries enjoying the festivities.

The once small event is now Clarksdale’s biggest blues and business week of the calendar year—garnering media attention from the likes of PBS NewsHour, 60 Minutes, The New York Times, The Economist, and numerous music magazines. It also has a positive “halo effect” that lasts year-round.

As a result, the Juke Joint Festival is often credited with helping to fuel downtown’s ongoing revitalization efforts and providing a motivation for former visitors to ultimately move or invest there—from as near as New Orleans and as far as Australia.

“It’s the ultimate introduction to our historic town,” says Visit Clarksdale Tourism Director Bubba O’Keefe. “I always tell folks that we’ve got more characters than Sesame Street, and Juke Joint Festival definitely proves it. It also showcases our amazing array of cultural assets and business opportunities.”

Australian economist (and Juke Joint Festival fan) John Henshall noted these assets and opportunities in his textbook Downtown Revitalisation & Delta Blues in Clarksdale, Mississippi: Lessons for Small Cities and Towns. Even more to the point, Henshall and his friends from Down Under have seventeen hotel rooms booked in town for this year’s festival.

According to event co-organizer Nan Hughes, it will be worth the twenty-hour flight from Melbourne.

“We plan to make this year’s 20th Anniversary Juke Joint our biggest and best ever,” said Hughes. “Saturday alone will include at least sixteen day stages and over twenty nighttime venues. Plus, we’ll have all kinds of special activities from Thursday through Sunday night.”

She also reminds fans to book rooms early for next year, adding, “We’re in this for the long haul.”

Twenty years can be a long time. It can also be just a beginning.DM For more information visit, jukejointfestival.com. For lodging and more visit, visitclarksdale.com.

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INSPIRATIONAL. UPLIFTING. EDUCATIONAL. FILLED WITH ART AND SAGE ADVICE FOR EVERYONE FROM CHILDREN TO 100+ YEARS!

JUST RELEASED Order Voices from the Soul now from novelmemphis.com or your local bookstore/gift shop.

Joy Bateman Author, illustrator, publisher of the ‘The Art of Dining’ book series 50 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

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The late Aunt Florence Signa, salad maestro and beloved greeter at Doe’s Eat Place in Greenville holding forth over one of her huge salad bowls. It has been estimated that in her seventy years of making salads at Doe’s, she’s made over 1,600,000 individual salads, spreading a LOT of good eating and an abundance of love along the way.

Salad Queen of the Delta—if not the world—Aunt Florence Signa spent her entire life giving out salads and hugs and love

BY HANK BURDINE

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SIGNA FAMILY COLLECTION

re uPLOVE

Mrs. Mamie Signa, Matriarch of Doe’s, in the main kitchen in the 1950s. It was at this very stove in 1948 where the young Florence Strazi went on her first date with Mamie’s brother-in-law Frank, to help out and fry potatoes. Florence eventually married Frank and was still working in that kitchen seventy years later.

F THERE IS ONE WORD THAT CAN EXPLAIN THE LIFE, HEART, AND ESSENCE OF FLORENCE SIGNA, IT IS LOVE. Love of her Lord and Savior, love of her family, and the extended Signa family, and the outpouring of love that she spread to just about every person that came through the doors of Doe’s Eat Place in Greenville, Mississippi. For seventy years she greeted most every customer that came into Doe’s and made salads for them. That’s a lot of salads; that’s a lot of shared love.

PHOTOS SIGNA FAMILY COLLECTION

I

Florence Strazi was born and raised outside of Boyle, Mississippi, right below Cleveland. About 1948, when she was twenty-two years old, she met Frank Signa at a church fair and was swooned by him.

On their first date, supposed to be a movie date, the handsome Frank asked her if she would mind going by Doe’s Eat Place on Nelson Street to help in the kitchen because they were shorthanded that night.

Frank’s brother Dominic Signa and his wife Mamie had opened up Doe’s Eat Place at 502 Nelson Street in a part of the house they lived in. She agreed and was stationed at the stove in the kitchen frying

potatoes. Next to the stove, and above the sink, was a pass-thru window where Frank was opening raw oysters and putting them on platters to hand through the window for the customers.

Aunt Florence told me one time, “I burned two or three orders of fried potatoes that first night because I was too busy looking through the window at that handsome man!”

It was not long after their courtship that they were married, and Aunt Florence settled into

Big Doe Signa, founder of Doe’s Eat Place, with one of the big sirloin steaks that became famous worldwide.

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Florence Strazi being courted by the dapper young Frank Signa in 1948.

Hank Burdine and Aunt Mattie Brocato, Miss Mamie’s sister, at the family table in Doe’s. Never to dine alone, Aunt Mattie would always scoot over so Hank could nestle in between her and Aunt Rosalie amidst the coffee cups, dishes and ash trays.

her life being a Signa and accepted her scepters of wooden salad spoons and the huge wooden salad bowl that you pass as you walk into the kitchen from the front room where the blast furnace ovens are laden with steaks, BIG steaks, and pots of hot tamales. Nobody came into or left Doe’s without passing by Aunt Florence.

If you already knew her, you got a hug 54 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

when you came in. And everyone got a hug from Aunt Florence when they left.

I’ve been going to Doe’s for a very long time, and I never remember being there when Aunt Florence wasn’t there, until she retired several years ago. And even then, if she heard there was a special occasion planned, or if someone dear to her was going to be in town and coming to Doe’s,

she would be there, making salads and visiting with her beloved friends. Early on, only family worked up front, Aunt Rosalie, Aunt Mattie, Aunt Jay, Aunt Sara, Aunt Lucille, and Aunt Florence, and Big Doe cooking steaks. Uncle Brock would cook steaks when Big Doe wasn’t there and open oysters along with Frank, also known as Jughead. Frank was called Jughead because while working for the power company one day, he stood up into a hot wire and was electrocuted. He had to wear a big turban bandage on his head for a while, and his friend “Mink” Maucelli nicknamed him “Jughead.”

Mrs. Estelle Henderson came to work as a waitress along with Judy Saulters, Shirley Ventura, and others. All wore fulllength dresses or skirts, and any time you were in Doe’s it felt so homely. Just about everyone that worked in there was kin, and it was as if you were extended family.

Love was everywhere, and you felt it. If you forgot to bring your liquor, Doe’s is a brown bag establishment, or, Heaven forbid, if you ran out, you could always go borrow some out of a box under the cash register from bottles that were left on the tables and stored away. Before I was married, I ate at Doe’s quite frequently, oftentimes coming in straight from work building roads and sitting at the “family table” in the kitchen between Aunt

PHOTOS SIGNA FAMILY COLLECTION

Jughead and Aunt Florence Signa at an Army reunion during the 1970s in California.

Signature salad at Doe’s Eat Place, one of millions Aunt Florence made during her career as Salad Queen.

PHOTOS HANK BURDINE

Andrew Zimmern and Aunt Florence during the filming of the Travel Channel’s Bizarre Foods series. It was an effort to get Andrew Zimmern to sit down and be filmed at the family table for dinner because he didn’t want to leave Aunt Florence’s side at the salad bowl!

There is no menu at Doe’s. Debra Padgett displays the steaks to choose from along with hot tamales, salad, shrimp, spaghetti with meatballs and gumbo.

Courtney Cowart and Robbie Colgin from Atlanta enjoying dinner at Doe’s. It’s good to the last bite!

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SIGNA FAMILY COLLECTION

HANK BURDINE

Mary Francis Signa and Jim Veal with Hot Tamale Queen Aunt Florence Signa and Hank Burdine at the 2nd Annual Hot Tamale Festival in Greenville.

HANK BURDINE

Steak and potatoes with a salad and broiled shrimp on the side. Doe’s Eat Place has been noted as one of the top steakhouses in America by several publications with even a James Beard Award to show for it.

Alden and David Dewhirst with Aunt Florence at the family table in Doe’s. Baby Doe Signa has stated, “Aunt Florence was the heart and soul of Doe’s Eat Place. She was an icon and the essence of what Doe’s is all about. She even taught me how to make the salad!”

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Mattie, Aunt Rosalie, and Aunt Florence, when she wasn’t making salads. I felt so much at home.

Aunt Florence had a Sweetheart Rose bush outside her front door at home and would bring little roses to give to special customers. My mother, Baby Jane Burdine, always came to Doe’s bringing flowers from her yard to place on the table. If Aunt Florence knew my mama was coming in, there would always be flowers on her table before she ever got there. Salads and flowers and hugs and love were what Aunt Florence was all about.

Six years ago, Julia Reed was instrumental in setting up a Netflix documentary tour of “Somebody Feed Phil,” about the Mississippi Delta, and Doe’s Eat Place was highlighted. Within minutes of Phil Rosenthal coming into Doe’s and talking to Aunt Florence, she took off her apron and turned to everyone there and said, “Okay, y’all are going to do without me. I’m going home with Phil.”

She later joined us at the “family table” and had dinner and told family stories until closing time. I often received text messages from Phil or his brother asking how Aunt Florence was doing. And upon her passing, Phil Rosenthal was one of the first people I called.

Prior to the Netflix documentary, I was involved with the Food Channel Network doing a series on Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern. We had spent all day filming in a duck boat up the Arkansas River while duck hunting and were to finish up the day at Doe’s Eat Place. Upon entering Doe’s about dusk, we were almost not able to film the story because Andrew Zimmern would not leave the salad bowl while talking to Aunt Florence. They were inseparable, two absolute professionals at what they did, and they

SIGNA FAMILY COLLECTION

SIGNA FAMILY COLLECTION

Mary Ann, Martha and Sug Signa with Aunt Florence. Family and love abound in all the Signas.

The late Joe Sykes,, longtime beloved security guard at Doe’s Eat Place. Joe loved Aunt Florence and always looked after her as she walked to and from her car, and whenever they were together.

RICHARD ROSENTHAL

admired each other so very much. himself, and began saying his own Rosary.

Street with an electric transformer And even before that, my friend Sid When they both sat down from their attached to a sawed-off power pole “Bo Weevil” Law had met a young man in prayers, Aunt Florence took her set of commemorating Jughead as a yard a canoe on the Missouri River and invited Rosary beads and folded them up and ornament in her front yard. Hundreds of him to come stay a few days in Chatham, placed them in his palms, closed his cars passed by dropping off presents and Mississippi, at Roy’s Store when he got hands, and kissed him on his cheek. I flowers and well wishes to Aunt Florence. downriver to rest up and reprovision. spoke with Abhram right after Aunt Innumerable times as I came into Abhram was an Artic mush-dog town, I would gather up a dozen or trainer, a single-handed high so fresh eggs from my chickens, or tower repair climber, and steal some from my neighbor, to adventurer extraordinaire. I met deliver to Aunt Florence. I have him and took him to Doe’s, and taken buckets of daffodils and he met Aunt Florence. She spider lilies and naked ladies to her became enthralled in his exploits house and spent much time and wanted to visit more, but he visiting with her after she retired, was to be back on the talking about old times and what’s Mississippi River the next happening now. I was able to take her some flowers about three weeks morning. As I dropped him off before she passed away, and we at his cabin, I told Abhram if he held hands and did a lot of would like, I would pick him up laughing and crying. Shortly at five-thirty in the morning to thereafter she went to Jackson to be go to St. Joseph’s Catholic with family, and I got a call from Church for early Mass because I Phil Rosenthal during the filming of the Netflix documentary her daughter Pearl that hospice had knew Aunt Florence went to “Somebody Feed Phil, Delta Series” receives a special hug from been called in. It was decided that Mass every morning. I had no Aunt Florence.

I should Facetime her on Pearl’s idea he was Catholic, but we phone and have a chat. Even though she would surprise her with his presence. He Florence passed away, and he told me he was not totally responsive, we had a said he would be ready. still carries those beads with him on all his wonderful visit. I told her, “My daffodils As we walked in the door of St Joseph’s adventures. That’s Aunt Florence. are not blooming, and my chickens have Church, Abhram with his long ponyWhen COVID struck, Aunt Florence stopped laying, so I have nothing to give tailed hair tied tight and a bear knife was about to celebrate her ninety-fifth you but my love.” Aunt Florence smiled, strapped to his side, heads turned. We birthday. The family wanted to celebrate and a tear rolled down her cheek as her walked straight to the pew where Aunt somehow, so they had an “Aunt Florence Florence was kneeling saying her Rosary.

Drive-By Birthday Party.” For three hours lips spoke, “I love you.” DM Abhram slid in right next to her, crossed people drove by her house on Shattuck DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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HOME

Firmly Planted,

By Design Recently updated, the Meredith home in Clarksdale has grown and changed along with their family over the years

BY SHERRY LUCAS • PHOTOGRAPHY BY RORY DOYLE

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Contemporary lighting and a lot of white make the open concept kitchen and great room a bright and cheery spot for the family to gather. The recent remodel added white oak hardwood floors throughout, grounding the spaces with subtle warmth.

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The durable beauty of slipcovers is the answer to keep furnishings fresh for this family of five. In the breakfast room, a kiss of pink in the drapes and chairs picks up the hues in Chancely Meredith’s portrait of her daughter, Rickly Kate.

S

unshine beams into the great room of the Meredith’s Clarksdale home, bursting through big windows, bouncing off white linen, and brightening every corner with cheerful insistence.

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That’s all by design—the skills of interior designer Chancely Meredith, put to work fashioning a breezily comfortable home for her own family of five.

“I like light and airy,” Chancely says. “The first thing I do in the morning is open every curtain in the home. Anything that helps give natural light in a home, I love.”

A lot of white takes full advantage of all that light, and clean lines with lively points of interest contribute to a refreshing vibe and a welcome retreat from days spent scanning patterns and picking colors. The lovely mix of antique and modern furniture— family treasures, collected pieces and contemporary finds—pull together the best of both worlds, combining timeless classics with fresh energy.

The Merediths built the house ten years ago. The in-town location comes with a good two acres of elbow room, giving the spot a nice out-of-town feeling, too. “We built it as a little starter home,” says Chancely, who with ag pilot husband, Skip Meredith, only had one child at the time. Just as their family has grown— son Grayden now 13, and daughters Rickly Kate, 10, and “our

Chancely Meredith’s artistic and design talents are both showcased in the great room, where her atmospheric oil painting sets the tone for accessories.

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The remodel puts Chancely and her love of cooking right in the center of the home’s action, and the kitchen island with its sweep of lucite barstools combines cool good looks and easy family function. At left, an accent chair is refreshened to fit in Kravet pale blue velvet.

little caboose” Evelyn, 3—they’ve grown to love this location, tucked right behind Lee Academy. Two dogs, the longtime family Lab, Lou, and the recently added puppy, Delta, complete the picture.

A recent remodel to fit their growing family streamlined the home’s layout to maximize space and use. By knocking out two downstairs walls, they’ve added a butler’s pantry, redesigned and opened up the kitchen, and converted a bedroom into a muchneeded formal dining room.

Their home is the gathering spot for family celebrations, Chancely says, particularly during the busy holiday season. With the goal of sufficient seating for twenty people, she can now count on six in the breakfast nook, five at the kitchen island, and another six comfortably settled in the dining room. “We can pull up another two at the ends of the table, so that puts us right at nineteen. The adjustment has really been great for family gatherings and holidays. I’m always in the kitchen—I love to cook—and that’s probably my favorite part of the remodel.”

The remodel gave her the larger oven she wanted, a pot filler faucet to help make big dinners a breeze, and plenty of storage for all her china and dishes. Best of all, it places her and one of her favorite activities right at the heart of all the action. That 64 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

The remodel turned a bedroom into a dining room, fulfilling the home’s potential as a hub for family gatherings, and the butler’s pantry adds plenty of practical, attractive storage. Fresh flowers from Flower Bouquet bring in the spring.

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The custom-blend hue of deep turquoise with a hint of gray makes a distinctive setting for the neutral furnishings in Grayden’s bedroom—masculine, with a youthful energy that suitable for a teen.

The decor picks up on Grayden’s passion for hunting, both in the suite of spike skull mounts and the accent fabric on pillows. The mounted turkey pays tribute to his late grandfather.

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The natural light streaming in the bedroom window is one of Chancely’s favorite design tools; she blends custom paint colors to work with it. Lab puppy Delta joined the family at Christmas. Dad Skip is an ag pilot, and Grayden inherited a passion for aviation.

central station is key, “because our home is filled with kids, everywhere, all the time, living life to the fullest,” she says.

Form and function go hand in hand with good looks, in the white and gray Bianco Rhino leathered marble countertops—”not slick and shiny, with more of a casual feel to them.”

Gabby Lucite barstools wipe down easily, and contribute cool lines with no visual clutter.

White oak hardwood floors, another bonus of the redo, tie everything together.

The great room is as crisp and airy as a mountaintop moment, conveying a sense of calm contentment. The eye-catching curve of the staircase anchors one side, and the breakfast room tucks into the opposite corner, its chairs and drapes a very pale and pretty pink. “I designed the whole room around my daughter’s portrait,” Chancely says of her painting of Rickly Kate. “Her dress is the same pink.”

In between the staircase and breakfast nook, the predominantly white decor wraps in visual interest with light blue/gray accents and a serene landscape painting, wispy as a dream, in the same hues. Chancely is the artist there too, as well as the hand behind most of the art in the home. “I love to paint when I have time to paint, which is rare,” she says. With the landscape, she knew exactly what she wanted, and created it to suit the space.

Sofas are slipcovered in white, and a pair of swivel chairs, in oatmeal Belgian Linen.

“Everything I have is slipcovered, washable, nothing that I stress over,” Chancely says of the sturdy linen that slips right off for cleaning.

The blue accent chair is a collected piece, redone in luxurious style. “My sister, who also does a lot of painting, painted it for me, and I picked my very favorite fabric and splurged on that” for the upholstery, she says of the Kravet pale blue velvet that pulls in a plush, subtle sheen. The small table beside it was crafted by DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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Queens rule in the breakfast nook where a Tony Mose Esom Art painting and one by Chancely sister, Katie Brett, add fun touches. Family and market collectibles throughout the home honor past generations, and display a fine eye for Magazine Street finds.

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The airy, clean slate feel of the master bedroom is the restful answer to days spent choosing patterns and colors (Chancely) and watching fields fly by (Skip).

her grandfather’s brother, and kept in the family for generations. Chancely’s sister Katie Brett is also the artist behind one queen painting in the breakfast room, done in memory of their aunt who lived in Metairie. The other queen, an Esom Art painting by Tony and Tracey Mose, is another ode to the city where Chancely grew up. “Every artist, every designer I’m drawn to, are all in New Orleans.”

Light fixtures and lamps by Visual Comfort bring in a fun, young, contemporary glow. Chests were collected from New Orleans’ Magazine Street, a favorite place to shop for design finds. Knotty alder doors, along with the lovingly collected furniture, bring warmth to every room.

Seapearl by Benjamin Moore brightens walls in white, and Boothbay Gray is perfect in the dining room where settings of gold-rimmed Rosenthal China flirt richly with the chandelier and the mirror’s gilt frame. Arrangements

From left, Grayden, Rickly Kate, Chancely, Skip and Evelyn Meredith soak up the sun.

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Rickly Kate’s and Evelyn’s pretty shared bedroom features custom built-in bunks and a lovely Schumacher Amaltas panel set.

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The airy, pretty-in-pink decor is perfect for the young girls, with bunks that are inviting spaces for sleepover fun.

and blooms by Flower Bouquet throughout the home add yet another lovely layer.

The girls’ bedroom upstairs is a feminine, functional oasis, where four custom-built bunk beds, designed by Chancely, stand ready for sleepovers and slumber parties. “They love to have their friends over.” The room’s vibe reads soft and girlie, and yet, “All the fabrics, down to the pink on their beds, are performance fabrics,” she says, perked up with Matouk Luxury Linen shams and shared monograms. Evelyn’s bonnets, a suite of fashion drawings, and pale pink walls (a custom blend) contribute to the room’s sweet, pretty charm.

Rickly Kate’s craft creations come to fruition at her acrylic desk in the corner, where the curving branches, frilly fronds, and pink petals in a Schumacher mural panel provide dreamy inspiration. “Right when they dropped that, I just knew I had to have it,” Chancely says of the Amaltas Floral pattern. “When I walk into the room, it almost feels like I’m a little girl again. It almost feels like I’m in a treehouse.”

Grayden’s passion for hunting and his obsession with airplanes

are directly inherited from his dad, Skip. In the teen’s bedroom, a custom-blended hue of deep turquoise with a hint of gray sets a striking backdrop for a collection of spike skull mounts above the bed, and the wild turkey trophy mount in a place of honor near the window. The turkey is paired with a picture of his maternal grandfather, the late Ricky Pullen, gone and missed 14 years now. “That is a special thing in his room,” Chancely says of the display.

“Turkey was his favorite thing to hunt.”

There’s also a nod to his dad’s profession, in the watercolor print of Fletcher Field, Clarksdale’s airport (a gift from his granddad), and an old pump prop Skip found at the airstrip when he first started flying.

Chancely curated the surroundings, and Skip brings the spirit to their home, she says. In their master bedroom, the scene returns to a clean-slate white in fresh Leontine Linens on the big canopy bed.

“At the end of the day, with both of our jobs, we like a serene and calm environment. We don’t even have a TV in our room.”

It’s the perfect prescription for rest from one busy day, and rejuvenation for the next. DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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WHIMSY COOKIE CO.

BELLACHES

Renaissance Rewrites the Rules of Engagement.

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When preparing for your big day, you’ll uncover everything to help create your happily ever after.

Aerie • Allfeet • Altar’d State • Alterations by Tailor Kim American Eagle • Angie’s • Another Broken Egg Café Anthony Vince’ Nail Salon • Anthropologie • Aplós Simple Mediterranean • Apple • Aqua the Day Spa • Aria Boutique Athleta • AT&T • Ava’s Children’s Boutique • BankPlus Barnes & Noble Booksellers • Barnette’s Salon • Basil’s BellaChes Specialty Gifts • Brooks Brothers • Buckle CAET Seafood|Oysterette • Chico’s • Club Champion Club Pilates • Columbia • The Commissary • ENZO Osteria European Wax • Five Guys Burgers and Fries • Free People The Fresh Market • Gifts by KPEP • Hallmark • Highland Park The Hyatt Place Hotel • J. Jill • Jolly Orthodontics • Kendall Poole Event Planning • Koestler Prime • Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry • LensCrafters • Libby Story • Local 463 Urban Kitchen LOFT • lululemon • Magnolia Soap & Bath Co. • Material Girls Milo + Olive • Mindful Therapy • Monkee’s • The Orvis Co. Oswego Jewelers • Pandora • Panera Bread • Penn Street Investments • Red 8 Kitchen • Red Square Clothing Co. Regus • Renaissance Cinema Grill & Bar • Ridgeland Visitors Center • Sand Dollar Lifestyles • ScoopDeeDoo • Sephora SleepStore by Miskelly • Smoothie King • Soft Surroundings Soma Intimates • Starbucks Coffee • Sunglass Hut • Talbots Traditional Jewelers • Vintage Wine Market • Whimsy Cookie Co. • White House|Black Market • Zea Rotisserie & Bar

FIND US ON FACEBOOK I-55 at Old Agency Road, Ridgeland, Mississippi | 601.519.0900

See all our retail stores and restaurants online at www.RenaissanceAtColonyPark.com For leasing information, contact The Mattiace Company at 601.352.1818.

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ELY-GILIOMEE. Photography: Allison J. Naylor Photography & Katelyn Buchanan

Delta Magazine’s

WEDDING S H O W C A S E Presenting the 2023 Delta Magazine Wedding Showcase— and what a year it has been! This season our newlyweds spread out quite a bit with venues in New York City, breathtaking Portugal, the mountaintops of Tennessee and Colorado, a Parisian palace, and many stellar venues in our region. And a few chose to wed right at home! On the following pages, we share some of the new trends we’re seeing, as well as the charming traditions we all love. We hope to inspire you as you plan for your own big day! Our curated selection of photos from some of the region’s best photographers, along with formal wedding and engagement announcements from this season, will make you feel as if you were there!

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S

three’s a

charm

BY MARY LEE MCKEE

I

magine you have three daughters.

Now imagine they all get married. In the same year. And they all have their receptions AT HOME, with a mere four to five hundred guests each. And the wedding planner is the father of the brides. Yes, that’s right—the FATHER of the brides.

Ladies and gentlemen, meet Jay Morgan. Husband to Lou Anne. Father of four: three brides—Anne Scott, Lucy, and Ellen—and one bachelor, Jack. Lover of good parties and great appetizers. In answer to the question, how does one survive three weddings in one year, Jay doesn’t skip a beat: “Have a lot of friends.”

He’s got them. Including several thousand people who follow him on Instagram.

This father of the brides/wedding planner extraordinaire knows a thing or two about entertaining. Lou Anne is from Belzoni, where they lived for ten years before moving to Madison. “You know how any Delta town is,” Jay begins. “Life rotates around a good party. I mean, when we were getting married, there were eighteen showers and parties for us!” He knows the ingredients of a good party: 76 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Anne Scott and Will Brown

“You gotta have good people, good music, good food, and good presentation.” And he’s had a lot of practice.

When Jay and Lou Anne had young children, it was difficult to get away for socializing—so they brought the party to their house. Every Friday night. “We always had friends over in Belzoni,” Jay recalls. “If it was a pretty night, we’d have dinner on the patio. We’d cook or we’d ask our friends to bring apps.”

When the Morgans moved from Belzoni to Madison, their Friday night dinners continued with them inviting new friends to “come sit on the porch.” Thus the Friday Night Porch Party (FNPP) was born. Almost every Friday night since 2004, the Morgans have hosted anywhere from five to forty-five of their closest friends. Jay does most, if not all, of the

cooking. In June of 2020, their daughter Ellen created an Instagram account to document the evenings and share Jay’s recipes. Now there are more than 8500 followers. “Sometimes I’ll go somewhere and someone will ask, ‘Are you that guy?’

It’s funny.”

By the time his daughters were getting married, it was not his first rodeo. “The first gig, back in Belzoni,” Jay recalls, “was Lauren Parker. Her dad, Steve, came to my office one day, and said, ‘Lauren said you throw the best parties.’ And he asked me to help with Lauren’s wedding reception. She wanted a ballroom in the middle of her grandaddy’s cotton field. It was a great event.” As Jay’s reputation for party proficiency grew in Belzoni, the Morgans were asked to host eight wedding receptions at their home, under Jay’s direction.

Ellen and Daniel Baxter

Lucy and George Crews

Lou Anne is the self-proclaimed sous chef and support while Jay does all the planning. “He even planned most of our wedding!” she laughs. “He picked out the music, what the choir was going to sing, what I was going to walk out to. He’s all details. I was like, ‘Just get me to the chapel!’”

“Living with Jay is like living with the Energizer Bunny,” Lou Anne reflects.

“When I knew I was going to marry him, I told my best friend that there would never be a dull moment. And I was right.”

When they built their house in Madison, the Morgans already had home weddings in mind, which explains why they didn’t plant trees in the backyard. But years later, when his daughters were getting engaged, Jay had changed his mind about home weddings because of DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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The wedding of

Anne Scott & Will Brown JANUARY 15, 2022

the unpredictability of the weather. Case in point, he and Lou Anne were supposed to have their reception at Lou Anne’s parents’ home, but it began raining in the morning and never stopped. “It rained nine inches on my wedding day,” Lou Anne recalls. “I literally cried all day.”

Nonetheless, the girls wanted their receptions at home, and Jay knew that if he gave in for one, he would have to have all three. “They were relentless, and finally, I conceded.” Lou Anne wasn’t worried. “I felt very confident that Jay could pull it off.” Jay laughs. “Her biggest prayer was, ‘Please don’t die before these are done because no one knows what’s in your head!’”

And so the planning for the first wedding began. “I was having to pay for

three weddings in one year,” Jay explains.

“I knew I would have to be resourceful.”

The vision for daughter number one, Anne Scott, was an old Hollywood ballroom with red, black and white, and brass. “The deal with tents is you pay one dollar per foot for subfloor, and one dollar per foot for the floor. So I thought, if I’m going to spend $8,000 on the floor, I want it to stand out.” He asked his tent company, Great Southern Events, if they ever use bright red carpet. Learning that most people use gray, Jay went with red.

“Against the black and gold, it really did work!” he proudly shares. Although carpet for events is typically disposed of after a single use, Jay cleverly decided to keep the carpet for another wedding. “I stored it in the garage with all the other wedding

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The wedding of

Ellen & Daniel Baxter MAY 21, 2022

things we were storing all year long.” They re-used the carpet for Lucy’s wedding in December and saved several thousand dollars.

There was a pricey square bar Jay wanted to rent, but his friend Kai Mentzer suggested that they could build it and they did. Two talented neighborhood friends who arrange flowers for their church and decorate the neighborhood mailboxes for the holidays did all the flowers for the receptions. They hired a friend who is an amateur photographer who Jay says did a fabulous job. And Jay made most of the food. But not the cakes.

Ellen, the Morgan’s youngest daughter, is a baker who has built a successful baking business, Ellen Cookies. She made the wedding cakes for all three weddings: nine

80 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

gorgeous cakes in all, including four groom’s cakes for her husband Daniel. “But that’s Ellen,” Jay explains, “She’s extra.”

Ellen began baking when she was a child and launched her business when she was fifteen. It grew rapidly. “I’d stay up ‘til midnight some nights filling orders,” she remembers. The business continued to grow while she was a student at Ole Miss, and she began making cakes as well as cookies. In March, she will open her first store in Picayune where she and Daniel have made their home. Meanwhile, her sister Anne Scott makes petit fours and hosts classes at her parent’s home. “We’ve done thirty classes on Saturday mornings,” Jay shares. “We have mimosas and sit in the kitchen around the island. It’s so much fun!”

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The wedding of

Lucy & George Crews DECEMBER 17, 2022

82 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Anne Scott was the first to get married on January 15, 2022. “She was such an easy bride,” according to Jay. Lou Anne describes Anne Scott as being a lot like she was. “Anne Scott is very relaxed and calm.

She really didn’t have too many opinions.

She just wanted a good party.” For Jay, that was an easily achievable, if not also exhausting, goal. “I made 400 Krystal burgers, they went so fast! I made my creamed spinach, cheese grits and tomato casserole.” Larry from Larry’s Fish House in Itta Bena did all things fried: catfish, chicken strips, fried okra, and onion rings, and Jay made all the sauces.

Anne Scott and Will Brown were successfully feted with a beautiful, fun, fabulous reception, in spite of rain and

freezing temperatures. One down, two to go.

On Sunday, January 16, less than twenty-four hours after wedding number one, Jay received a text from Ellen, bride of wedding number two coming up in May, reminding him that it was time to get busy. Jay responded, “Look, we’ve got the band; we’ve got the tent. We’ve got the basics. You gotta give me a month to sleep.” But, like father, like daughter— Ellen is a planner. “She’s a go-getter and she spins like I do.” Jay laughs affectionately, “Ellen is my bridezilla.”

As he recites items of Ellen’s to-do list, including a flower wall in front of the bandstand, an ice cream specialty cocktail called a “BFF,” his voice rises to a

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crescendo: “She wanted flowers dripping off of EVERYTHING! The tables, the bandstand.” He takes a breath. “We had this flower ring…it was a twelve-foot octagon,” he says wearily. This floral construction, also built by Kai, was intended to be the centerpiece of the tent, a breathtaking chandelier of cascading greenery and roses. But when it was time to be hung—it weighed in at well over 250 pounds once the oasis was soaked— it crumbled to pieces.

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At this point, Jay texted daughter number three to declare that he would not be doing any more weddings! Fortunately, Lou Anne found one of Jay’s good friends.

“Lee,” she said, “go check on Jay. He’s having a meltdown.” Lee, who is an engineer, was able to help Jay and Kai rebuild the flower ring and successfully hoist it into place thirty minutes before the first look.

With the exception of a collapsed twelve-foot flower ring, tripped breakers,

dreadful heat that caused an overworked air-conditioning unit to freeze, an exquisite bride’s cake created by the bride herself and laden with dozens of delicately-forged buttercream roses that succumbed to unkind temperatures— practically melting off the table—Ellen and Daniel Baxter’s wedding reception was still a dreamy affair. “It was beautiful,” the father of the bride reminisces. “But it was the wedding from hell.” Two down.

One to go.

Lucy was engaged before Ellen’s wedding. She already had a date selected and a band, so Jay took a hiatus. “I didn’t think about Lucy’s wedding until September.” When it was time to begin planning, Lucy pretty much left everything in Jay’s hands. “She really didn’t request anything. Not even her

HOMEMADE KRYSTAL BURGERS

wedding cake,” Lou Anne recalls. Ellen created a white-tiered cake with edible Christmas lights. “Having a Christmas wedding was just so much fun,” Jay shares.

Christmas lights and garlands strewn throughout the house and tent, a glowing Christmas tree on stage, manufactured snow blowing through the air, and an appearance by Santa delivered the joy of the season to an already joyous occasion.

And the red carpet saved from Anne Scott’s wedding was the perfect backdrop.

As for the food, this time Jay was inspired with a new addition to the menu, a junk food table for all the college kids that included Jay’s Krystal burgers, Pizza Shack pizza, egg rolls, chicken strips, and onion rings. It was a big hit, as was the entire evening. Lucy and George Crews ended a season of Morgan weddings with the same degree of celebration and festivity that marked all three.

Earlier that evening, the father of the bride made his final journey down the aisle with daughter number three, and at the end of another remarkable reception, he kissed his last bride goodnight. And as for Lou Anne? When asked if she had any advice for parents of brides out there, she thoughtfully responded, “If it was just me, I would have a wedding planner.” Lucky for her, she’s married to one. DM

Jay shares three of his favorite recipes from the reception menus. The Krystal Burgers were a hit at all three!

ROTEL SAUSAGE CHEESE GRITS 10 cups water 2 tablespoons salt 1 stick of butter 3 cups quick grits 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 pound Velveeta type processed cheese, cubed 1 pound ground sausage, cooked and scrambled 1 can Rotel Tomatoes 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine the water, salt and butter in a large pot and bring to a boil. Slowly add in the grits stirring constantly with a whisk. Lower the heat to a low simmer. Let the grits simmer about 10 minutes stirring often to keep them from sticking. Lou says it’s very important to “whoop” the grits with your whisk which makes them creamy. Add in the Velveeta and whipping cream. Continue to cook until the grits are the consistency you prefer. I like mine a little thick, so I cook for a few more minutes. Others prefer their grits thin. Mix in the cooked sausage and the Rotel Tomatoes. Transfer to a large baking dish. Add the shredded cheese on top. Pop in the oven just a few minutes to allow the cheese on top to melt.

2 pounds ground beef 1 envelope of onion soup mix ½ cup mayonnaise 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 24 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls dill pickle slices mustard

Cook ground beef in a skillet with the onion soup mix. Salt and pepper to taste.

Combine with the mayonnaise and cheddar cheese. Make individual sandwiches using a generous scoop of the meat mixture and adding a little mustard and a pickle. Wrap in some type of sandwich wrapper. I keep a box of wrappers on hand that I buy from Sam’s.

BFF FROZEN COCKTAIL 2 can evaporated milk 2 cans sweetened condensed milk 2 3.4-ounce packages of instant vanilla pudding mix 2 ripe bananas pureed in the food processor 1 quart half-and-half 2 cups Bailey’s Irish Cream 2 cups bourbon 2 tablespoons vanilla whole milk to fill to the fill line

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix well. Add ingredients to your 5-quart ice cream freezer and follow manufactures instructions. Remove and transfer to freezer until serving.

For more of Jay’s recipes follow him on Instagram, @fridaynightporchparty

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and

gift style guide

Wedding season comes with a variety of events that call for a special gift. Let us help with ideas from local retailers and artisans!

ONE OF A KIND A piece of original art, such as this work by Olivia Fields, is a special gift for new couples as they are setting up their first home. It will be a treasured for years to come!

Rosson Co., Cleveland @rossoncompany 662.843.3986

CREATIVE COASTERS Protect tables from the dreaded drink rings while also making a statement with these beautiful coasters from artist Haley Farris!

Mississippi Gift Company, Greenwood @themississippigiftcompany 662.455.6961

DAILY GRIND

PERFECTLY PASTEL

Durable and stylish, these cast iron and wood salt and pepper mills by Skeppshult are made to last and are perfect for stocking the kitchen!

When Spring officially rolls round in Mid-March, be sure and have your dinnerware reflect the changing of the season. These beauties from Vietri help to pull in the perfect colors for this time of the year.

BellaChes, Ridgeland @bellaches 601.615.2239

Ultimate Gifts, Southaven @ultimategifts 662.349.2717

BATCH IT UP Opt to make your favorite spicy margarita or michelada in this adorable festive pitcher with matching glasses.

Dinner parties just became more of a fiesta!

Neysa’s Fireside Shop, Cleveland @neysasfiresideshop 662.843.3311

STATE PRIDE Show your love for Mississippi and entertain in style with a handcrafted cheese board—just right for casual gatherings!

Neysa’s Fireside Shop, Cleveland @neysasfiresideshop 662.843.3311

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STYLISH SETTING Fine table linens by Matouk will be a treasured investment gift that will bring traditional style to any table setting.

Social, Memphis @socialmemphistn 901.766.6746

INITIALLY HIS This leather monogrammed catch-all is the perfect size to collect various trinkets from pockets and wallets at the end of the day.

Mississippi Gift Company, Greenwood @themississippigiftcompany 662.455.6961

KEEP IT CHIL SOME LIKE IT HOT

When enjoying wine with friends or your new hubby, the worst is having the drink get cold! This shark-tank and Oprah favorite is a chilled coaster to be sure that doesn’t happen. .

Form and function does not have to sacrifice style! This enamelware can go from baking in the oven straight to your table for serving, all the while looking like a spring day.

Finchers, Inc., Greenwood @finchersinc 662.453.6246

Sav-Mor Drugs and Gifts, Grenada @savmordrugsandgifts 662.226.6741

CARRY IN STYLE Just right for picnics, outdoor concerts or sporting events this handsome leather wine carrier will always come in handy.

Abraham’s, Cleveland @abrahamsclothingcleveland 662.843.4541

EXCELLENT ACCENTS Who says orchids are hard to grow? Help make the newlywed’s first home even more special with a beautiful accessories. This gilt orchid on acrylic stand will always be in bloom and is the perfect accent!

Lefleur Interiors, Oxford @lefleurinteriors_oxford 662.380.5378 DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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BOWLED OVER This white melamine bowl is not only shatterproof, it will be used over and over again—as a salad bowl, ice bucket, and even a cachepot for orchids!

Babcocks Gifts, Memphis babcockgifts.com 901.763.0700

POSITANO POUR The Almafi coast and the Italian seaside gets channeled in this new Vietri pattern, perfect for serving up your drink of choice at the next dinner party.

WELL-GROOMED GROOM Now is the time to level-up your wardrobe and complete your look for engagement parties and the big day with classic men’s accessories.

Babcock Gifts, Memphis @babcockgifts 901.763.0700

Kinkade’s Fine Clothing, Ridgeland @kinkadesfc 662.898.0513

RECIPE READY Measuring cups don’t have to be so unattractive- they can actually be made of pottery and set out for display, just like this set!

BellaChes, Ridgeland @bellaches 601.615.2239

PILLOW PERFECT: Decorative throw pillows are an unexpected, but much appreciated gift for couples furnishing a new home. This blue velvet is a stunning option for the sofa or bedroom.

Social, Memphis @socialmemphistn 901.766.6746

POP OF COLOR Candy colored Estelle shot glasses will be a fun addition to any home bar!

BREAD WINNER Bride-favorite Annieglass has created this dining room show stopper, the Bread Tray. Featuring the signature glass and gold rim, it’s sure to bring a touch of glam to any meal.

Rosson Co., Cleveland @rossoncompany 662.843.3986

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The Finery, Jackson @thefineryjackson 601.566.1066

BEACH READY When not blocking the sun’s rays tuck your hat on the side of this handy tote for safe storage while at the beach!

Montage Marketplace, Greenville @montagemarketplace 662.332.1195

FLORAL FUN Adorned with a whimsical floral touch these elevated white mules will be worn on repeat this wedding season.

Jane, Oxford @jane_oxfordms 662.281.8711

READY, SET, GO Matching two piece sets are all the rage this spring, and you don’t want to sleep on this adorable white number that would be perfect for a bridal shower or party! Dress it up with your favorite wedges and gold accessories.

Mod + Proper, Cleveland @modandproper 662.400.3111

DAZZLING DANGLE Perfect for carrying all your necessities in style, this metallic gold wristlet adds an adorable touch to any wedding guest ensemble or honeymoon wardrobe.

Jane, Oxford @jane_oxfordms 662.281.8711

GORGEOUS IN GREEN Headed to the beach or the tropics for your honeymoon?

This elevated tropical romper by FARM Rio is perfect for a day of sightseeing or a casual dinner.

Kittie Kyle, Memphis @kittiekyle 901.452.2323

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A LOOK BACK

I Do in the Delta In honor of our twentIeth year In publIcatIon we looked back at the hundreds of weddings that have been celebrated on the pages of Delta Magazine over the years. We chose some of our favorites photos—which we think have that “Only in the Delta” vibe and highlight some of the the region’s most iconic and unique locations.

2020: Malorie Luckett and Jacob Salem celebrated PAUL GERO

on the eve of their Clarksdale wedding at the Shack

2007: Kate Bishop and John Martin got married at Po’ Monkeys Juke Joint

BILL POWELL

STEPHANIE THORNTON PHOTOGRAPHY

in Merigold. Po’ Monkeys is gone but certainly not forgotten!

2009: Elisa Brunetti and Michael Oswalt exchanged their vows on the banks of the Mississippi River, complete with river barges rolling slowly by.

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2020: Ann Elizabeth Winn and Xan Robertson celebrated their June 2020 wedding with a lovely family gathering at the iconic Burrus House in Benoit. This tiny guest thinks it was the perfect setting!

PATRICK REMINGTON APRIL AND PAUL PHOTOGRAPHY

BLINK PHOTOGRAPHY

CAPTURED PHOTOGRAPHY

2021: The rows of painted historic buildings of downtown Yazoo City have become one of the most Instagrammable places in the Delta. It was the right photo op for Robert McCaleb and his groomsmen on the day of his marriage to Mary Morgan Mohamed, a Yazoo City native.

2010: Indianola natives Madelyn Black and Will Jennings gave a nod to their hometown, posing in front of this vintage brick building in downtown Indianola.

2019: Ashley Elizabeth Hunter and Parker

WILJAX WEDDINGS

WILJAX WEDDINGS

Gober had a June wedding on the picturesque banks of Lake Washington at Linden Plantation in Glen Allan.

2015: Historic Dockery Farms was the setting of Lane and Stephen Cross’s wedding, complete with a vintage getaway truck. McCartys blue birds added a premier Delta touch to their cake.

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MIKI MCCURDY

wedding cake represented both the bride and groom’s hometown of Greenwood, forever known as the Cotton Capital of the World!

KAREN E. SEGRAVE/KES WEDDINGS

CAPTURED PHOTOGRAPHY

2012: A blues-themed Delta wedding was the perfect destination for guests invited to Elise Hodgson and Sean Twyford’s wedding at the Shack Up Inn in Clarksdale. The concert poster invitation was just the right touch.

2014: The cotton topping Pryor Lott’s fondant

2014: For many couples, such as Courtney and Will Parish, having guests sign The Delta: Landscapes, Legends and Legacies of Mississippi Most storied Region was a special detail that turned into a treasured

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JAMIE HARDIN PHOTOGRAPHY

CAPTURED PHOTOGRAPHY

keepsake.

2018: Pecan groves are a common sight around the region, and yield a prolific harvest in every fall. Groom Eustace Winn’s sterling pecan cufflinks were a lovely nod to the signature crop.

WILJAX WEDDINGS

2015: The wedding party of Blann and Poteat make an indelible memory at their

B. FLINT PHOTOGRAPHY

JO DARLING PHOTOGRAPHY

Greenville wedding on the levee at Lake Ferguson.

2022: If there is a close second to hunting in

2016: Fall is a perfect time for a Delta wedding. Magan Bruton and her bridesmaids stand out against a cotton field ready for harvest.

B. FLINT PHOTOGRAPHY

the Delta, golf would have to be it! Cleveland groom Tucker Love and his bride Braxton Clark tied the knot right out on the green of the Samuel T. Dunning Golf Course at the Cleveland Country Club. It was a short golfcart ride to the reception!

2020: Newlyweds Aubrey Beckham and William Gulledge share a kiss as they hit the city streets of downtown Greenwood.

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2018: Newly hitched and ready to begin their journey of a lifetime, Jennifer

2021: Only in the Delta can you pull off a wedding on an airstrip. But the Maxwell Flying Service airstrip in Benoit provided the perfect, spreadout, option for a unique service for the wedding of FaithEllen Nichols and Walter Stubbs. A flyover capped off the spectagular event!

PATRICK PATRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

SKELTON PHOTOGRAPHIE

ANNE BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHY

Drinkwater and Aaron Swanson hit the road—a turnrow that is.

2020: The New Roxy in downtown Clarksdale

LEIGH CARTER PHOTOGRAPHY

provided a decidedly Delta vibe for the wedding reception of Anna Catherine Wilkinson and Zachery Gene Smith, both of Clarksdale.

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2020: Indianola’s B.B. King Museum is a blues history-filled and funky destination for many special events. It hit just the right not for native Deltans, Lauren Grisham, of Belzoni and William Stroud of Indianola.

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This is physical jumps and mental leaps.

This is the discipline, the art, the passion, the world, on one stage.

And it all comes down to this.

THIS IS BALLET. THIS IS JACKSON.

Brooklyn Mack USA IBC 2006 Silver Medalist

JUNE 10 – 24 2023 FOR TICKETS, VISIT USAIBC.COM/ATTEND SALES START APRIL 3

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on location Stunning venues set the stage for these magical weddings around the globe and across the nation.

SMITH-SMIT. Photography: Paulo Santos of Aquarium Wedding Photography 106 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

HOLLAND-FRAZER. Photography: Through the Glass Paris

SHEARER-VARNER. Photography: Tec Petaja Photography

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ESPOSITO-PORTNER. Photography: Lisa Larson Photo

VARNER-JONES. Photography: Lucy Baird Photography 108 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

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bow embel ishments

Spotted on cakes, adorning the backs of wedding gowns, worn as the perfect hair accessory, or tied on bridal bouquets with yards of ribbon, the girlish bow is an iconic silhouette proving everything old is new again.

PACE-TURNER. Photography: Andrew Welch Photo

NELSON-HORTON. Photography: Letty Weeks Photography

HOLBROOK-WARLICK. Photography: Mississippi Roots Photography ESPOSITO-PORTNER. Photography: Lisa Larson Photo 112 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

KELI LINDSEY

SHEARER-VARNER. Photography: Tec Petaja Photography

COOKE-MYRES. Photography: Eliza Kennard

CARSON-YARBOROUGH. Rachel Carson, hair stylishly pulled back with an organza bow, is serenaded from the stage by her groom Ben Yarborough at their wedding reception held at the Lyric in Oxford.

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“Michael introduced himself to Gracie and asked her to be his girlfriend in the same text message in the 7th grade.”

SANTUCCI-SHEPPEARD. Photography: Beth Giachelli Photography

it’s all in the details

Crumpton-Agostinelli. Photography: Beth Morgan Photography

The special touches from the ring, to generational keepsakes, or uniquely designed invitations, incorporated into the wedding make the day even more meaningful.

RAGLAND-ANGEL. Photography: Beth Giachelli and Beth Morgan Elizabeth Swindle wore the same six-pence given to her mother along with a letter of congratulations, for her wedding thirty years prior. When they found the letter, they realized it had come from the groom William’s grandfather!

DAVIS-LAMB. Photography: Elizabeth Skelton Photographie WRIGHT-ROGERS. Photography: Clark Brewer Photography 118 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

SWINDLE-BRANTON. Photography: BN Captures

TURNER-BEARD. Photography: Sully Clemmer Artist Cherry Marlar Rountree live painted the scene at Elizabeth and William Branton’s wedding ceremony.

FREY-CARSON. Photography: Masa Kathryn Photography

SWINDLE-BRANTON. Photography: BN Captures ESPOSITO-PORTNER. Photography: Lisa Larson Photo

ELY-GILIOMEE. Photography: Allison J. Naylor Photography & Katelyn Buchanan

VARNER-JONES. Photography: Lucy Baird Photography

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fur y friends

COLQUETT-PEREIRA. Photography: Madeleine B. Photography

It’s not only families that are blended on your wedding day. Pets hold a special place in our hearts so it is only fitting they would be included on the big day!

SHEARER-VARNER. Photography: Tec Petaja Photography 122 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

GRAVES-CLEMENTS. Photography: Taylor Square Photography Co., Ann Marie Wyatt

SMITH-SMIT. Photography: Amanda Bland Photography

PERRY-WICKER. Photography: RSM Photography

PACE-TURNER. Photography: Andrew Welch Photo

MICKLOS-WAGNER. Photography: Letty Weeks Photography

FREY-CARSON. Photography: Masa Kathryn Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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the lit les

COLQUETT-PEREIRA. Photography: Madeleine B. Photography

Cute little people in pretty dresses and tiny tuxedos will make your day even more special as they carry the rings, scatter petals, and occasionally take a nap during the ceremony.

JANOUSH-REDDITT. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography 128 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

HOLBROOK-WARLICK. Photography: Mississippi Roots Photography

FREY-CARSON. Photography: Masa Kathryn Photography

LAMENSDORF-BLACKMON. Photography: Taylor Square Photography Co.

BALLINGER-MILLER. Photography: Skelton Photographie

JANOUSH-REDDITT. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

WRIGHT-ROGERS. Photography: Clark Brewer Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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Fly Jet Service from Greenville, MS to Nashville or Dallas Fort Worth Book online at contourairlines.com or download our mobile app

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Connections available worldwide with our interline partner *Fare Rules: Advance Purchase: 21 days Terms and conditions: Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or all days. Contour Airlines flights are public charters sold and operated by Corporate Flight Management as a direct air carrier. Flights are subject to DOT Public Charter Regulations. Each guest is permitted to check one piece of baggage free of charge. Any additional checked baggage will be subject to a fee of $25 for each additional piece. These fares are nonrefundable. Applicable fare and tax differences apply to any changes made after ticketing. Fares include U.S. government taxes and fees. All fares are in U.S. dollars and are subject to change without notice, and other restrictions apply. If you do not board the flight(s) corresponding to your itinerary, your ticket has no value. Please see our policies and procedures page for full details.

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Every couple considers themselves to have a story different than everyone else’s; those stories deserve to be told. Born and raised in Cleveland, MS, Gunner Sizemore prides himself of being more of a storyteller than a photographer. He focuses on how you and your significant other are different from the rest, and how he can portray that through his lens.

Known for his duality with photography and storytelling, his famous words are, “I’m here to make everything easier!”

Scan the code to access my contact, social media, and website to learn more and view any gallery I’ve ever shot before!

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gro ms do to

The boys take it up a notch on their wedding day as well—with dapper tuxes and suits, classic accessories, work-of-art cakes and most of all, a good time.

LAMENSDORF-BLACKMON. Photography: Taylor Square Photography Co.

WRIGHT-ROGERS. Photography: Clark Brewer Photography 134 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

QUAYLE-BOWEN. Photography: Jo Darling Photography

PACE-TURNER. Photography: Andrew Welch Photo

JANOUSH-REDDITT. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

COOKE-MYRES. Photography: Eliza Kennard DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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SHEARER-VARNER. Photography: Tec Petaja Photography

ZRENNER-DOSSETT. Photography: Lauren Koehler, Love House Studio

BALLINGER-MILLER. Photography: Skelton Photographie 136 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

YOUNG-ELLIS. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

HANNON-SHAFFETT. Photography: Rachel and Noah Raye

RAGLAND-ANGEL. Photography: Beth Giachelli and Beth Morgan

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Begin your new life at Harbor CELEBRATING 68 YEARS OF MAKING MEMORIES Mountain Harbor has multiple picturesque lakeside venues to make your wedding magical.

Photography by Narrow Road Productions

A FULL-SERVICE DESTINATION WEDDING VENUE • Premier Lodging • On-site Dining & Catering • Turtle Cove Spa • Personalized Service • Award-winning Staff • Multiple Lakeside Venues

MOUNTAIN HARBOR RESORT & SPA Tri-Pennant Family of Resorts (870) 867-2191 • 1-800-832-2276

MountainHarborResort.com 994 Mountain Harbor Road Mount Ida, AR 71957

get ing ready

This is the day for glamorous girls and primping pretties to go all out.

PERRY-WICKER. Photography: RSM Photography

RAGLAND-ANGEL. Photography: Beth Giachelli and Beth Morgan

SANTUCCI-SHEPPEARD. Photography: Beth Giachelli Photography

JANOUSH-REDDITT. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

YOUNG-ELLIS. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography 142 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

COOKE-MYRES. Photography: Eliza Kennard

HANNON-SHAFFETT. Photography: Rachel and Noah Raye

KNIGHT-ELDRIDGE. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

SMITH-SMIT. Photography: Paulo Santos of Aquarium Wedding Photography

TENOLA PLAXICO

PACE-TURNER. Photography: Andrew Welch Photo

BOONE-WEBB. June bride Chelsea Boone incorporated the colors of the season with her lovely bridesmaids in lavender.

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COLQUETT-PEREIRA. Photography: Madeleine B. Photography

WRIGHT-ROGERS. Photography: Clark Brewer Photography

TURNER-BEARD. Photography: Sully Clemmer

HOLBROOK-WARLICK. Photography: Mississippi Roots Photography YOUNG-ELLIS. Photography: Patrick Remmington Photography 144 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

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let them eat cake

HOLLAND-FRAZER. Photography: Through the Glass Paris

HANNON-SHAFFETT. Photography: Rachel and Noah Raye

Whether embellished with elegant fondant, mounds of butter cream frosting, or whimsical flowers, these confections are the true story of the reception.

VARNER-JONES. Photography: Lucy Baird Photography

NELSON-HORTON. Photography: Letty Weeks Photography ANDERTON-BERRY. Photography: Kyle Hancock Photography 146 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

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floral fetes & dazzling decor

GARY-PERKINS. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

ê

Clever tablescapes, creative reception designs, and bountiful florals—from lush swags to whimsical stems suspended from above—make each couple’s wedding celebrations uniquely special.

HOLLAND-FRAZER. Photography: Through the Glass Paris

NELSON-HORTON. Photography: Letty Weeks Photography 152 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

BALLINGER-MILLER. Photography: Skelton Photographie

RAGLAND-ANGEL. Photography: Beth Giachelli and Beth Morgan ELY-GILIOMEE. Photography: Allison J. Naylor Photography & Katelyn Buchanan

ANDERTON-BERRY. Photography: Kyle Hancock Photography

CRUMPTON-AGOSTINELLI. Photography: Beth Morgan Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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HANNON-SHAFFETT. Photography: Rachel and Noah Raye KNIGHT-ELDRIDGE. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

RAGLAND-ANGEL. Photography: Beth Giachelli and Beth Morgan

BALLINGER-BRANTLEY. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography 154 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

COOKE-MYRES. Photography: Eliza Kennard

KELI LINDSEY

LAMENSDORF-BLACKMON. Photography: Taylor Square Photography Co.

CARSON-YARBOROUGH. Dazzling disco balls lit up the Lyric at the CarsonYarborough wedding in Oxford.

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Graves+Clements Wedding • December 2022 • Taylor Square Photography

Proudly serving the Delta and beyond for over 50 years with the largest wine selection in the state of Mississippi

design | stationery | occasions 2002 US-82, Greenville, Mississippi 38703 • 662.335.1941

located in greenville, mississippi • rebekahcaraway.com

Circa 1857

Bed & Breakfast | Weddings | Events | Tours 3498 Mississippi 1 South, Greenville | 501.650.2296 thebelmont1857.com DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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SissysLogCabin.com

family, friends & fun

GARY-PERKINS. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

Receptions—when it’s finally time to take a breath and bring on the fun, the food, enjoy a cocktail or two, and dance the night away with your favorite people.

GARY-PERKINS. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

ESPOSITO-PORTNER. Photography: Lisa Larson Photo

RAGLAND-ANGEL. Photography: Beth Giachelli and Beth Morgan 160 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

DAVIS-LAMB. Photography: Elizabeth Skelton Photographie

MORRIS-LONG. Photography: Lauren Dorman Photography

COOKE-MYRES. Photography: Eliza Kennard

ELY-GILIOMEE. Photography: Allison J. Naylor Photography & Katelyn Buchanan

PERRY-WICKER. Photography: RSM Photography

VARNER-JONES. Photography: Lucy Baird Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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KNIGHT-ELDRIDGE. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography JANOUSH-REDDITT. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

VARNER-JONES. Photography: Lucy Baird Photography MORRIS-LONG. Photography: Lauren Dorman Photography

SWINDLE-BRANTON. Photography: BN Captures 162 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

HANNON-SHAFFETT. Photography: Rachel and Noah Raye

ZRENNER-DOSSETT. Photography: Lauren Koehler, Love House Studio

LAMENSDORF-BLACKMON. Photography: Taylor Square Photography Co.

GRAVES-CLEMENTS. Photography: Taylor Square Photography Co., Ann Marie Wyatt DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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164 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

NAMED BEST BRIDAL SHOP IN MS 2017 - 2023

RIDGELAND, MISSISSIPPI WWW.ELLEJAMESBRIDAL.COM DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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166 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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sing i do

ZRENNER-DOSSETT. Photography: Lauren Koehler, Love House Studio

The setting for each ceremony sets the tone in a special way—whether under a canopy of oak trees, a gothic sanctuary, or the lawn of a historic home.

MICKLOS-WAGNER. Photography: Letty Weeks Photography 168 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

GARY-PERKINS. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

KNIGHT-ELDRIDGE. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

PERRY-WICKER. Photography: RSM Photography

SANTUCCI-SHEPPEARD. Photography: Beth Giachelli Photography

HANNON-SHAFFETT. Photography: Rachel and Noah Raye DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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170 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

BEAUTIFUL LINGERIE FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY

408 Perkins Ext | Memphis, TN 38117 | 901-68-7575 | trousseau.com DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 171

Ragland-Angel, Beth Giachelli and Beth Morgan

amazing exits

When it’s time to leave, exit in style. After tracking through throngs of well-wishers make your getaway in anything from a vintage jalopy to a jeep.

QUAYLE-BOWEN. Photography: Jo Darling Photography

TURNER-BEARD. Photography: Sully Clemmer 172 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

HOLBROOK-WARLICK. Photography: Mississippi Roots Photography

BALLINGER-BRANTLEY. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

COLQUETT-PEREIRA. Photography: Madeleine B. Photography

JANOUSH-REDDITT. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography

FREY-CARSON. Photography: Masa Kathryn Photography

ELY-GILIOMEE. Photography: Allison J. Naylor Photography & Katelyn Buchanan DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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YOUNG-ELLIS, Patrick Remmington Photography

GRAVES-CLEMENTS. Photography: Taylor Square Photography Co., Ann Marie Wyatt

HANNON-SHAFFETT. Photography: Rachel and Noah Raye

GARY-PERKINS. Photography: Patrick Remington Photography 174 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

LAMENSDORF-BLACKMON. Photography: Taylor Square Photography

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANDERTON

BERRY

The South Warehouse • Jackson • Kyle Hancock Photography

Katherine Louise Anderton Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 178 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

& Justin Williams Berry

May 28, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence William Anderton Mr. and Mrs. Marc Thompson Berry Stella York from Amelia Grace Bridal The South Warehouse Pryor Hackleman, A Pryor Engagement Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Cakes by Iris, Iris Smith Mike Rob and the 601 Band Rachel Barbuto Katie Berry Minted

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BALLINGER

BRANTLEY

Hollandale First United Methodist Church • Hollandale • Patrick Remington Photography

Sarah Jordan Ballinger

& Matthew Brayden Brantley

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

May 14, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Roy Ballinger Mr. Barry Owen Brantley; Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Dale Martar Justin Alexander Belmont Plantation HEF Designs Lake Village Flowers Cicero’s Carol Hunter 2nd Coming Band by Music Garden Molly Gee & Company Molly Gee & Company HEF Designs DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

BALLINGER

MILLER

Hollandale First United Methodist Church • Hollandale • Skelton Photographie

Shelby Claire Ballinger Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 180 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

& Hayes Archer Miller

December 10, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Rob Ballinger Mr. and Mrs. Steve Miller Essense of Australia Belmont Plantation HEF Designs Lake Village Flowers Cicero’s Carol Hunter Powerhouse by Music Garden BATA Beauty Company Erin Higgins Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COOKE

MYRES

Saint George’s Episcopal Church • Clarksdale • Eliza Kennard

Mary Olga Cooke

& Harper Rivers Myres IV

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

December 17, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Scott Cooke Mr. and Mrs. Harper Rivers Myres III Amelia Grace Bridal Clarksdale Country Club The Pantry Inc. The Pantry Inc. Alice Chow Musical Fantasy Element Hair Studio Element Hair Studio Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 181

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COLQUETT

PEREIRA

Episcopal Church of the Nativity • Greenwood • Madeleine B. Photography

Caroline Belle Colquett and Zachary Paul Pereira were united in marriage at half past five in the afternoon on June 4, 2022, at the Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Greenwood.

The bride is the daughter of The Honorable and Mrs. Jason G. Colquett of Schlater. She is the granddaughter of Ms. Nannette Penrose Stroh of Bay St. Louis, Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Stroh of Reno, Nevada, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Jack L. Colquett of Pine Mountain, Georgia.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Francisco G. Pereira of Santa Clara, California. He is the grandson of Mrs. Paula Marchetti Denison and the late Mr. Charles D. Denison of Santa Clara and Mr. and Mrs. Francisco R. Pereira also of Santa Clara, California.

The ceremony was officiated by the Reverend Don Chancellor.

The verger was Mr. James Barrett; the chalice bearer was Ms. Tish Goodman, and the acolytes were Will Garrett Cole, Benz Porter, Charles Powers, and Thompson Regimbal. The church directors were Mrs. Paula Provine and Mrs. Vicki Yaeger. The organist was Mr. David Williamson, and vocalists included Mrs. Donna Buford Bryant and her daughter, Miss Lillian Spell, who performed “Come Thou Font of Every Blessing” and “Dona Nobis Pachem” during the Eucharist. Scripture readers were the groom’s great aunt, Mrs. Barbara Marchetti, who read from the Book of Tobit, and the Otha Motha of the bride, Mrs. Caroline Falls, who read from the book of Ephesians. Kennedy Regimbal was the program attendant.

Escorted by her father, Belle wore a classic ballgown by Martina Liana with an ivory lace on ivory silk zibeline. The sheer bodice was adorned with rich lace and highlighted with a V-front and V-back, featuring slight pleats and pockets, and paired with blue shoes from Badgley Mischka. The Martina Liana gown and matching lace veil came from Town & Country Bridal of New Orleans where Belle’s great great aunt, Lillian Chapman Marshall, worked for forty-one years. Zachary wore a navy tuxedo from Eli Thomas Menswear in San Jose with an Italian silk bowtie in ivory, a gift from his bride.

Serving as maids of honor were the bride’s sisters, Mary Nannette, Helen, and Lane Colquett. Her matron of honor was her cousin, Emma Steiffel Eyman of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Bridesmaids were Christie Bryan of Flora; Rebecca Keel of Pass Christian; Hannah Pereira, sister of the groom, of Santa Clara, California; Hannah Richardson of Charleston, South Carolina; and Rachel Walker Erickson of Atlanta, Georgia. The proxy bride was Julieann Rawlins of Greenville, South Carolina. Each bridesmaid wore floor-length dresses of various styles, each a different shade of blue, all individually chosen. The three flower girls were Iyla and Reya Stroh, first cousins of the bride, and Emma Pereira, niece of the groom, who all wore hand-sewn cotton gowns accentuated by lace and a blue ribbon. The dresses were hand sewn by the mother of the bride and the godmother of the bride, Mrs. Bea Tillman.

182 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Mr. Francisco Pereira served his son as the best man.

Groomsmen were Paul Pereira of Davis, California; Jared Neis of Noble, Oklahoma; Esteban Sosa of Santa Clara, California; and Patrick Ahern, Joe Escobedo, Leo Jara, and Jose Urquiza, all of San Jose, California. The groomsmen wore navy suits with black ties also from Eli Thomas Menswear.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted the reception at Crossroads Gin in Schlater. Bob Wilbanks of Cleveland catered the event; guests enjoyed his delicious Delta creations such as catfish tacos, mini muffulettas, a pasta bar, and much more. Karyn Burrus of Grapevine Cakes crafted the wedding cake in her world renown signature flavor as well as the chocolate groom’s cake which was displayed beside a floral arrangement with baseballs to compliment the groom’s topper of the Boston Red Sox logo. Chris Orr served beverages which included two specialty cocktails, The Amber, an interpretation of a Pimm’s Cup, and the Crossroads, a rendition of a Dark and Stormy. Entertainment by Unfazed Show and Band kept the packed dance floor boogying and entertained all night; the show ended with an electrifying guitar solo of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner.”

The couple was honored by the bride’s parents’ friends with a New Orleans-themed engagement party at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Collier Tillman in February.

The Friday before the wedding, the bride was honored by her mother’s friends with a brunch at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Todd Hall. Meanwhile, the groom and friends and family played a round of golf at the Greenwood Country Club. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at The Historic Elks Lodge, which was also catered by Bob Wilbanks.

Following the rehearsal dinner was a post-toast after party in the lobby of the Alluvian Hotel where Belle’s cousins, Dalton Steiffel and John Dupaquier, aged ninety-three, played the piano.

The Sunday following the wedding, Mr. and Mrs. Basil Kennedy and Mr. and Mrs. Martin Regimbal hosted a farewell brunch at the bride’s parent’s house for all out-of-town guests where stories of the weekend were shared with a little ‘hair of the dog’ before saying farewell.

Toni Tubbs from The Melon Patch created the invitations and stationery. Florals included mixed roses, dusty miller, orange Mokara Orchids, proteas, Tweedia, and blue thistles, all arranged

by Pryor Hackleman. Johnny Jennings provided the videography.

The weekend of fun festivities was thoughtfully and wonderfully organized by the most spectacular Pryor Hackleman of A Pryor Engagement, whom Belle had the joy of working for, years before she moved to California, which made working with Pryor for her own wedding much more memorable.

Belle and Zachary Pereira call Mountain View, California, their home with their two Bengals, Amber and Bogaerts.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

CRUMPTON

AGOSTINELLI

Olivia Grace Crumpton

& Michael Louis Agostinelli

Clarksdale United Methodist Church • Clarksdale • Beth Morgan Photography

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 184 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

November 26, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Fondren Crumpton III Mr. and Mrs. Robert Agostinelli Maggie Louise Bridal Clarksdale Country Club Kendall Poole Southern Bloom Walker’s Catering The Turquoise Chandelier 2nd Coming Band by Music Garden Hotty Toddy Tan & Glam Hotty Toddy Tan & Glam Tori Frey

ANNOUNCEMENTS

DAVIS

LAMB

Drew Methodist Church • Drew • Skelton Photographie

Hannah Elizabeth Davis Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& William Hunter Lamb

June 17, 2022 Mrs. Stacy Lee-Davis; the late George Davis, junior Mrs. Kimberley Tweedle Lamb; the late Rodney Dean “Dino” Lamb, junior Amsale from Amelia Grace Bridal Caston Family Home Stacy Lee-Davis Simply Sunflower, Ruleville 3 Daughters Catering by Cole Ellis Anne Henry Style Entertainment Lacey Ferguson Erin Higgins The Image Specialist DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ELY

GILIOMEE

Chinaberry Chapel • Shaw • Allison J. Naylor Photography & Katelyn Buchanan

186 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Mary Louisa Ely

& Charles Raymond Giliomee

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

May 21, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. John Lars Ely Mr. and Mrs. Phillipus Giliomee Jesús Peiró Ely Home Amanda Cottingham The Pantry Inc. Pastry Art Bake Shoppe Perfection DJs Yvette Jackson Yvette Jackson Menage Stationery

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 187

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ESPOSITO

PORTNER

Mandarin Oriental, New York • Manhattan, New York • Lisa Larson Photo

188 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Danielle Esposito Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Michael Portner August 6, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Esposito Dr. and Mrs. Michael Portner Vera Wang Mandarin Oriental, New York Mandarin Oriental, New York Ron Ben-Israel Cakes On The Move Entertainment Glamsquad Ellis Paige Makeup Allie Gilmore Art DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

FREY

CARSON

First United Methodist Church • Starkville • Masa Kathryn Photography

Keelyn Christine Frey Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 190 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

& Cole Everett Carson

April 23, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Tony Frey Mr. and Mrs. Chris Carson Maggie Louise Bridal Hewlett Barn The Pantry Inc. The Pantry Inc. Carol Hunter Black Jacket Tracy Branch Agency April Epps Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GARY

PERKINS

First Presbyterian Church • Greenwood • Patrick Remington Photography

Susan Shel Gary Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Berlin Madison Perkins

December 17, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Tom Gary, junior Mr. and Mrs. Berlin Perkins Giovanna by Ines Di Santo Historic Elks Lodge Pryor Hackleman, A Pryor Engagement Oxford Floral (David Naron) Karyn Burrus, Grapevine Cakes, Catering and Floral Karyn Burrus, Grapevine Cakes, Catering and Floral The Party Jammers Molly Gee & Company Molly Gee & Company You’re Invited, Nashville (Invitations) Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper (Programs) DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

GRAVES

CLEMENTS

Tunica Presbyterian Church • Tunica • Taylor Square Photography Co., Ann Marie Wyatt

Ellen Linville Graves

& John Christian Clements

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 192 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

December 17, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Graves Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Clements Anne Barge from Maggie Louise Bridal Tunica River Park Latham Stevens Events Southern Bloom, Kelly Freeland Draper’s Catering of Memphis Alice Chow Memphis Soul Review Brynn Chesney Jessica Mathias Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HOLBROOK

WARLICK

St. James Episcopal Church • Greenville • Mississippi Roots Photography

Katherine Elizabeth Holbrook Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Charles Robinson Warlick

May 28, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Harold Alvis Holbrook Mr. and Mrs. Charles Owen Warlick Nicole Barré Bridal Boutique St. James Episcopal Church Courtyard The Pantry Inc. The Pantry Inc. The Pantry Inc. Jazz Persuasion Kut Works Salon: Brandy Grant, Melissa Logan, and Sammi Leinart Kut Works Salon: Brandy Grant, Melissa Logan, and Sammi Leinart Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 193

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HANNON

SHAFFETT

St. James’ Episcopal Church • Jackson • Rachel and Noah Ray Photography

194 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Caroline Wise Hannon

& Rhett Benjamin Shaffett, junior

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

January 22, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Wayne Napoli Mr. and Mrs. Rhett Benjamin Shaffett Monique Lhuillier Country Club of Jackson Crisler Boone Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Country Club of Jackson Cakes by Iris Five Star Funk, Atlanta, Georgia Gellisa Fevrier April Epps Fresh Ink

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

HOLLAND

FRAZER

Shangri-La Paris • Paris, France • Through the Glass Paris

Makensie Lee Holland Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 196 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

& Benjamin Guy Frazer

June 25, 2022 Mr. Michael Holland and the late Mrs. Lori Holland Mr. and Mrs. Willis Frazer Martina Liana from Patsy’s, A Bridal Boutique Shangri-La Paris Shangri-La Paris Shangri-La Paris Berry Chantilly Cake by Chef Maxence Barbot Modern string quartet Alesia Solo Alesia Solo Betty Lu Paperie

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HUDDLESTON

PIERONI

Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church • Lake Village, Arkansas • Taylor Square Photography Co.

Elizabeth Faith Huddleston Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Christopher Landon Pieroni November 19, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. William Cass Huddleston, senior Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Brian Pieroni Martina Liana from Town & Country, New Orleans Lake Village Country Club Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Karyn Burrus, Grapevine Cakes, Catering and Floral Style Entertainment Watercolor Salon, Jackson Erin Higgins Artistry, Greenville Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 197

ANNOUNCEMENTS

JANOUSH

REDDITT

First Presbyterian Church • Cleveland • Patrick Remington Photography

198 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Mary Parker Janoush Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& William Ryan Redditt

March 5, 2022 Mr. James Paul Janoush and the late Mrs. Lucy Richardson Janoush Mr. and Mrs. William Stallworth Redditt Maggie Louise Bridal GRAMMY Museum Mississippi Grande Design by Bob Wilbanks Grande Design by Bob Wilbanks Alice Chow and The Turquoise Chandelier Patrick Smith Band Madelen Brister and Scout Mauc Rivers Keyes and Lauren Aldridge Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 199

ANNOUNCEMENTS

KNIGHT

ELDRIDGE

Episcopal Church of the Nativity • Greenwood • Patrick Remington Photography

200 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Julia Virginia Knight Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Justin Ryan Eldridge

October 22, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. William Knight Mr. Charles Eldridge and Mr. and Mrs. Mitch Ramage Essense of Australia Oakhurst Plantation Ellen Thomas Event Design Lagniappe Designs Elizabeth Heiskell Catering Alice Chow Atlanta Party Band Kenneth Moore, BATA Beauty Co. Lauren Aldridge, BATA Beauty Co. Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 201

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LAMENSDORF

BLACKMON

Annesdale Mansion • Memphis, Tennessee • Taylor Square Photography Co.

202 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Patricia Lindsey Lamensdorf Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Jean Columbus Blackmon

May 21, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Mike Lamensdorf Mr. and Mrs. Scott Adcock and the late Mr. Tim Blackmon Maggie Louise Bridal Annesdale Mansion Deedra Stone Design CFY Catering Frost Bake Shop Peabody Rocket Emily Cohen Hair Jordan G Beauty and Makeup by Kassidy Mrs. Post Fine Stationery & Gifts

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

LANG

HUDDLESTON

Inverness United Methodist Church • Inverness • Skelton Photographie

Mary Caylen Lang

& William Cass Huddleston, junior

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 204 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

October 22, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. John William Lang III Mr. and Mrs. William Cass Huddleston, senior Amelia Grace Bridal Heathman Plantation Commissary The Pantry Inc. The Pantry Inc. Bride’s Cake, Shelaine Fulton; Groom’s Cake, Cindy Burge Style Entertainment Devan Morgan Ellington, Wild Hair by Devan Devan Morgan Ellington, Wild Hair by Devan Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MICKLOS Isom Place

•

WAGNER

Oxford • Letty Weeks Photography

Sarah Darrington Micklos Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Lawrence Reed Wagner

December 3, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Micklos Mr. Michael Wagner and Ms. Charlotte Wagner Low’s Bridal Isom Place Katie Naron Oxford Floral Elizabeth Heiskell Catering Cakes by Carolyn 4 Barrel Funk Karissa Dickerson Carsen Greensage, BeautybyCarseng Minted

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 205

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LYON

SLACK

North Greenwood Baptist Church • Greenwood • Kristen Pugh Photography

206 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Callie Lane Lyon Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Wedding Planner Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Noah Carlton Slack

December 17, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Paul Lyon Mrs. Amanda Slack and the late Mr. Chip Slack Eddy K from The Bridal Path Greenwood Country Club Pryor Hackleman, of A Pryor Engagement Katy Lyon, of Katy Coleman Design Co. and Pyror Hackleman, of A Pryor Engagement Greenwood Country Club Karyn Burrus, Grapevine Cakes, Catering and Floral Unfazed Show and Band Legends Salon and Spa Legends Salon and Spa Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

MORRIS

LONG

The Statehouse at West End District • Cleveland • Lauren Dorman Photography

208 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Christina Nicole Morris Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Embry Rain Long

May 21, 2022 Dr. and Mrs. Jason K. Morris Mr. and Mrs. Russell L. Long Essense of Australia from Elle James The Gin at West End District Delta Party West End Catering Sweet Serendipity Cakes The Band U.S. Lacey Ferguson Hotty Toddy Tan & Glam Minted

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 209

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NELSON

HORTON

Leland Presbyterian Church • Leland • Letty Weeks Photography

210 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Toni-Lynn Nelson

& Clayton Maxwell Horton

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

February 5, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Nelson Mr. and Mrs. Sean Horton Bridal House by Woo The Gin at Dunleith The Pantry Inc. The Pantry Inc. Carol Hunter Mike Rob and the 601 Band Kut Works Studio Erin Higgins Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 211

ANNOUNCEMENTS

PACE

TURNER

Old Capitol Inn • Jackson • Andrew Welch Photo

Mary Elizabeth Pace Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 212 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

& James Bryan Turner November 26, 2022 Mr. Bob Pace and Ms. Tammie Pace Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Turner Lea-Ann Belter Bridal, The Bridal Path Old Capitol Inn Mostly Martha’s Florist Old Capitol Inn Ellen Baxter, Ellen Cookies Compozitionz Memrie Alford, Luxe Salon Jamie Bobbitt Seat by the Table

ANNOUNCEMENTS

PERRY

WICKER

Rolling Fork First Baptist Church • Rolling Fork • RSM Photography

Peyton Brooke Perry Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Preston Wade Wicker December 17, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Kelly Perry Mr. and Mrs. Wade Wicker Maggie Louise Bridal Greenville Golf and Country Club Jo Harris, Donna Lynn Corban, and Joann Ray Greenville Golf and Country Club Carol Hunter Chris Boykin and Jerry Stevens Jessica Hatcher and Carson Fitzhugh Christine Cody Natalie Perkins through Invitations by Dawn

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

QUAYLE

BOWEN

First Baptist Church • Cleveland • Jo Darling Photography

Brittany Leigh Quayle Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 214 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

& Preston Daniel Bowen October 22, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Lee Quayle Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Daniel Bowen Lottie by Made With Love, Elle James Bridal The Cotton House The Pantry Inc. Cole Ellis, Delta Meat Market Alice and Sally Chow Al Paris and the Heartbreakers Heart and Soul by Ally Nicole Heart and Soul by Ally Nicole HEF Designs

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SANTUCCI

SHEPPEARD

Ali Michelle Santucci

& Reagan Connor Sheppeard

Belmont Plantation • Greenville • Beth Giachelli Photography

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

September 16, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. John Michael Santucci Mr. and Mrs. Robert Vinson Sheppeard Allure Bridals Belmont Plantation Jo’s Personal Touch & Catering Jo’s Personal Touch & Catering Carol Hunter Spunk Monkees Dina Pickell Libbi Ragland Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 215

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RAGLAND

ANGEL

Macon Lake Plantation • Arkansas • Beth Giachelli Photography, Beth Morgan Photography

216 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Anna Ryan Ragland Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Ben Hollis Angel

November 12, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Ragland Mrs. Donna Angel and the late Mr. Sam Angel Galia Lahav from Unbridaled Kendall Poole Macon Lake Plantation Fresh Cut Catering and Floral Fresh Cut Catering and Floral Cakes by Iris The Mustache Band Hannah Wood, Courtney Davis, Jennifer McBride Libbi Kyle Ragland, Jana Travis, Carsen Greensage Fresh Ink DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

| 217

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SHEARER

VARNER

Daisy’s Folly • Spring Hill, Tennessee • Tec Petaja Photography

Keely McAdams Shearer Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery 218 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

& Henry Rogers Varner III

June 11, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. George Nelson Crowe II Mr. and Mrs. Henry Rogers Varner, junior Carolina Herrera from The White Room of Birmingham Christopher Confero Daisy’s Folly New Mood Floral + Styling, Nashville Hastings Catering, Birmingham Sugar and Stems Compozitionz Meri Gray Fernandes Meri Gray Fernades Tenn Hens Designs, Nashville

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SMITH

SMIT

Forte da Cruz • Estoril, Portugal • Paulo Santos of Aquarium Wedding Photography & Amanda Bland of Amanda Bland Photography (reception)

Georgia Hart Smith Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Wynand Smit

July 27, 2022 Dr. and Mrs. John Albert Smith, junior Mrs. Magda Bester and the late Christo Petrus Smit The Barefoot Bride, Memphis Home of the bride’s parents, Greenwood, September 17, 2022 My Wedding Flowers, Portugal; Katy Lyon, Katy Coleman Design Co. Penha Longa Catering, Portugal; Karyn Burrus, Grapevine Cakes, Catering and Floral Penha Longa Catering The Casey Lipe and Calvin Flint Combo Lasa Bennett, Legends Salon Lasa Bennett, Legends Salon Toni Tubbs, The Melon Patch DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

SWINDLE

BRANTON

Saint Joseph Catholic Church • Greenville • BN Captures

Elizabeth Chandler Swindle and William Lindsey Branton, junior, were united in holy matrimony at half past three o’clock in the afternoon on March 19, 2022, at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Greenville. Father Aaron Williams performed the ceremony. Drew Turberville provided a special marriage prayer.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Scott Swindle of Pearl. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Luther Chandler of Greenville and Mrs. Tommie Swindle and the late Mr. James Swindle of Greenville. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Lindsey Branton, senior, of Leland. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Allen Buchanan, senior, of Greenville and Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Thomas Branton, senior, of Leland.

The weekend began with a bridal luncheon at Sherman’s on South Main. A rehearsal dinner was hosted by the groom’s parents at Vito’s restaurant in Leland. The wedding party was treated to a brunch by the groom’s family friends at The Thompson House on the morning of the wedding.

The bride wore a white satin gown featuring a pearl encrusted belt and a lace-trimmed cathedral-length veil. She held a bouquet of white roses and soft greenery wrapped in white satin ribbon.

The bride was escorted by her father while a string trio played the wedding march. Attending the bride were matron of honor Mia Mascagni Branton, maid of honor Caroline Alderson, and bridesmaids Katherine DuBard, Karlie Topper, Elizabeth Cheek, Molly Jackson, Hannah Ainsworth, Mollie Buchanan, and Allison Wood. Blake and Vaughn Brown served as flower girls. Attending 220 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

the groom as best man was his father, William Lindsey Branton, senior, and groomsmen Carson Branton, Dean Arnold, Nicholas Denley, Gabriel Bernardi, Richard Word, Owen Jackson, Connor Kelly, and Bailey Carson. Collum, Hayden, and Carter Washington and James Shparago served as ring bearers. The day was coordinated by Lauren Messina of LGM Weddings.

Following the ceremony, the bridal party was whisked away by trolley car to Greenville Golf and Country Club. Guests enjoyed a buffet of the couple’s favorite Delta foods. The bride’s five-tier wedding cake sat atop a table covered with the bride’s mother’s wedding gown train and an elaborate floral display at the entrance to the club. The groom’s table featured an assortment of cheesecakes served on McCarty pottery, surrounded by red roses and golden Okra to pay homage to the groom’s fraternity Kappa Alpha Order and Delta State University where the couple met.

The wedding party and guests danced the night away in the club ballroom under chandeliers decorated with smilax and white orchids, with music provided by Solid Steele Sounds. The newlyweds departed the venue under a tunnel of sparklers to the getaway car, a remodeled 1957 Ford Fairlane, provided by the groom’s brother.

After a honeymoon in Saint Lucia, the couple is at home in Cleveland. The groom is the owner of Branton Record Search, and the bride is the assistant director of student life at Delta State University.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TURNER

BEARD

Latrobe’s on Royal • New Orleans, Louisiana • Sully Clemmer

The celebration and blessing of the marriage of Sara Jean Turner and Thomas Fount Beard, junior, was held on November 19, 2022, at six o’clock in the evening at Latrobe’s on Royal in New Orleans, Louisiana. Reverend Robert Patin officiated the double-ring ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Allen Turner of Vicksburg. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Joe Noe, junior, and the late Mr. Joe Noe, junior, of Clarksdale and Mrs. Homer Allen Turner and the late Mr. Homer Allen Turner of Belzoni.

The groom is the son of Mr. Thomas Fount Beard, senior, of Vicksburg and Ms. Rebecca Ann Conatser of Eureka, California. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Fount Henry Beard of Vicksburg and Mr. and Mrs. Bill Carmon Conatser of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and the late Mrs. Virgie Lee Conatser of Mena, Arkansas.

Honorary mother and father were Dr. and Mrs. James Wesley Cook of Vicksburg.

Nuptial music was provided by harpist Rachel Van Voorhees of New Orleans, Louisiana. Scripture readers were cousins of the bride, Camryn Kestenbaum of Memphis, Tennessee, and Robert Noe of Clarksdale.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore the couture Max gown by Australian designer Georgia Young. The distinctive design was an ivory matte finish with corseted bodice and sculptural off-theshoulder straps. It had clean lines with modern paneling through the skirt with a fit-and-flare design. She wore a Toni Federici cathedrallength veil with embroidery and small beads. Her bouquet featured blush peonies, pink ranunculus, white and blue anemone, white

garden roses, blue tweedia, white astilbe, burgundy roses, blush spray roses, lavender lisianthus, silver dollar eucalyptus, pennycress, and an orchid cascade. Tied to her bouquet were pins and medals of her late grandfathers. Her bouquet wrap and garter were handmade from her mother’s wedding dress. The bride wore sapphire and diamond stud earrings gifted by her parents on her wedding day.

Attending as matrons of honor were Clara Grace Shirley, sister of the bride, of Ridgeland and Megan Cook Vincent, sister-in-law of the bride, of Naples, Florida. They wore forest green dresses by BHLDN. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmaid was Ashton Lee Beard, sister of the groom, of Vicksburg. The usher was Peter Jeffrey Vincent II, brother of the bride, of Naples, Florida.

Boutonnieres featured blush and blue flowers with greenery.

The program attendant was Carys Turner, cousin of the bride, of Dallas, Texas.

A reception was held at Latrobe’s. Tables were illuminated with candles and flower arrangements. Food tables were adorned with antique gold candelabras with flowers and greenery. The cake room featured a hanging arrangement with flowers and greenery accented with clear candle orbs. Guests were entertained by Sugar Shaker of New Orleans, Louisiana. The evening ended with a Second Line

by Kinfolk Brass Band of New Orleans, Louisiana.

After a honeymoon to South Africa, the couple is at home in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

VARNER

JONES

Aspen Glen Club • Carbondale, Colorado • Lucy Baird Photography

222 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Sarah Overton Varner Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Dillon Austin Jones

October 8, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Varner Mr. Jack Jones and Ms. Wendy Jones Stella York at Ivory & White Sam Noel with Grey Designs Aspen Glen Club Flower Franch Aspen Glen Club Aimme Castro Diamond Empire Band Angela Andrade Angela Andrade Annabelle’s

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WRIGHT

ROGERS

Inverness United Methodist Church • Inverness • Clark Brewer Photography

224 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Barrett Elizabeth Wright Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

& Austin Michael Rogers

December 4, 2021 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wright Mr. Kenneth and Dr. Lisa Rogers Maggie Louise Bridal Home of the Bride The Pantry Inc. The Pantry Inc. Karyn Burrus, Grapevine Cakes, Catering and Floral Main Attraction Band Molly Gee and Company Anna Catherine Hester Fresh Ink DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

YOUNG

ELLIS

Episcopal Church of the Nativity • Greenwood • Patrick Remington Photography

Neely Elizabeth Young and Adam Parker Ellis were united in marriage at six o’clock in the evening on October 8, 2022, at the Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Greenwood.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Allan Young of Greenwood. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Rodney Errol Malloy and the late Mr. Rodney Malloy of Clarksdale and the late Mr. and Mrs. James Hershel Young of Clarksdale.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. George Franklin Ellis, junior, of Greenwood. He is the grandson of Mrs. George Ellett Lawrence and the late Mr. Ellett Lawrence of Greenwood and the late Mr. and Mrs. George Franklin Ellis of Greenwood.

The Reverend Don Chancellor officiated, and David Williamson of Durant provided the nuptial music. The vocalist was Connie Black of Madison. Readers were Meg Threet of Itta Bena and Caroline Stuckey of Greenwood.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore a radiant satin V-neck ball gown with a sheer illusion lace back featuring buttons cascading to the floor and a jeweled belt adding detail at the waist.

Both the gown and the cathedral-length veil were from Amelia Grace Bridal in Greenwood. The bride wore a diamond and sapphire bracelet that belongs to her maternal grandmother and a diamond watch that belonged to her paternal grandmother. She carried a bouquet of white roses and greenery.

The ceremony flowers designed by Lark Brown were in memory of the couple’s grandparents, Rodney Malloy, Ellett Lawrence, Romona and James Young, and Florence and George Ellis. The wreaths on the bell tower doors were dedicated to Mickey Black, Samuel Davis, Rivers McGraw, and Michael Young.

The matron of honor was Mary Kathryn Ola O’Dell of Greenwood. Attending as maids of honor were Mary Shelton Bond of Greenwood and Sydney Dell Turnage of Jackson. The bridesmaids were Abbey McCulloch Goodman, Erin Frances Goldberg, and Mary Key Britt, all of Greenwood; Abbey Glenn Burns of Madison; Beatty Kathryn Carpenter of Fort Worth, Texas; Caroline Wise Hannon Shaffett of Oxford; Christine Anne Higgins of Nashville, Tennessee; Kacie Taylor Jenkins of Atlanta, Georgia; Mary Hannah Jarman of Memphis, Tennessee; and Suzanne Alline Flautt of Jackson. Each bridesmaid’s dress was a velvet tailored silhouette in peacock blue, and each bridesmaid carried a smaller version of the bride’s bouquet with delicate peacock feathers and greenery.

George Ellis, father of the groom, served as best man.

Groomsmen were Alan Lawrence Ellis, brother of the groom, James Bradley Wright, Jason Michael Singh, Matthew Morgan Hargett, Phillip McLane Milner, William Joseph Redditt, William Drake Thornburg, and Walter Edward Swider, junior, all of

226 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Greenwood; Tecumseh Britt IV of Minter City; Randle Carter Makamson of Berclair; Brent Taylor Morgan of Teoc; and Andrew Scott Roberson and Matthew Blake Threet of Itta Bena. Ushers were James Andrew Hull of Oxford; John Hilton Black of Flora; Justin Scott Nix of Greenwood; and Sam Henry Farmer of Memphis, Tennessee.

Serving as flower girls were Lucy and Simms Blakeney of Flora and Ansley Ellis and Lisi Johnson both of Greenwood. Ring bearers were Hank and Thompson Swider of Greenwood. William Ollie Mohamned of Greenwood served as crucifer. Molly Black Blakeney of Flora was the proxy bride, and Anne Craig Melton, Jane Reynolds Hargett, Mary Landi Mohamed, all of Greenwood, served as program attendants.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at their home in The Birches. The cul-de-sac was transformed into a beautiful venue by Mississippi Tent Company and Details of Oxford. The entrance and tables were adorned with large arrangements filled with blue hydrangea, purple liatris, toffee and gold roses, ornamental cabbage, raspberry bunny tails, pampas grass, and peacock feathers designed by Grapevine Floral. The bride’s cake and catering were provided by The Vine Catering. The five-tier wedding cake created by Karyn Burrus was displayed on a gorgeous tablecloth made from the bride’s aunt’s wedding gown. A Pryor Engagement, event planning, tended to every detail, and the evening was perfect.

Guests watched as Angie Cole did a live painting of the reception. A packed dance floor celebrated with the bride and groom to the amazing sounds of DMP band of Memphis, Tennessee.

The couple had their first dance to “You Are the Best Thing”

by Ray LaMontagne. The bride and her father danced around the floor to “My Girl” by Otis Redding. The groom took his mother around the floor to “How Sweet It Is to Be Loved by You” by James Taylor. After dancing the night away with friends and family, the couple shared one last dance together to “Beyond” by Leon Bridges before walking through a sparkler exit and driving away in a vintage ‘69 Cadillac convertible.

On the eve of the wedding, the bridegroom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at the Greenwood Country Club. Family friends of the couple’s parents hosted “a night before” after party at the Alluvian. The day prior to the wedding a bridesmaids’ luncheon was hosted by the bride’s maternal grandmother and aunt and special friends at the home of Mrs. Webb Franklin of Greenwood.

Following a trip to the island of Saint Lucia, the couple is at home in Greenwood.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ZRENNER

DOSSETT

Money Hill Golf & Country Club • Abita Springs, Louisiana • Lauren Koehler, Love House Studio

228 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Bernadette Maria Zrenner

& William Kethley Dossett, junior

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Caterer Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Makeup Invitations and Stationery

October 1, 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Robert Zrenner Mr. and Mrs. William Kethley Dossett, senior Paloma Blanca Amanda Cottingham Oak Grove in Money Hill The Pantry Inc The Pantry Inc Zoe’s Bakery MoJEAUX H2O Northshore Bride Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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ENGAGEMENTS

Mari Micci Bramuchi & Daniel Wager Shannon Dr. Lisa Bramuchi and Mr. Larry Bramuchi of Cleveland are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Mari Micci Bramuchi, to Daniel Wager Shannon, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dan Shannon of Clarksdale.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. Darry Hardy of Cleveland and the late Mr. and Mrs. Joe Bramuchi of Shelby. Mari Micci is a graduate of Cleveland High School and Mississippi State University, where she earned her biological sciences degree. She was elected as homecoming maid, served as an Alumni Delegate, and is a member of Delta Gamma Fraternity. After graduating from nursing and nurse practitioner school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Mari Micci recently obtained her doctor of nursing practice from the University of Texas at Arlington. She is currently employed as a nurse practitioner at EndoVascular Health Services in Cleveland and is a provisional member of the Junior Auxiliary of Cleveland.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Peyton of Olive Branch and the late Mr. and Mrs. Jack Shannon of Clarksdale. Daniel is a graduate of Lee Academy and attended Delta State University before obtaining his private and commercial pilot’s license. He then went on to become a third-generation aerial applicator for Shannon Flying Services in Clarksdale, where he is currently employed.

The couple have shared many mutual friends but somehow did not meet until they were introduced in May of 2021. The two were engaged on September 23, 2022, at Lookout Point of the Coahoma County Conservation League in Rena Lara.

The couple will exchange vows on April 22, 2023, at Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church in Cleveland with a reception to follow at the Cleveland Country Club.

Ana Parker Davis & Nicolas Chantz Arbuckle Mr. and Mrs. Lex Cashell Davis of Merigold announce the engagement of their daughter Ana Parker Davis to Nicolas Chantz Arbuckle, son of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Arbuckle, junior, of Cleveland.

The bride elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Travis Estes “Red” Parker of Drew and the late Mr. and Mrs. James Thomas Davis of Cleveland. Ana Parker is a graduate of Mississippi State University. She is employed by Endovascular Health Services in Cleveland.

The prospective groom, Chantz, is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Arkbuckle, senior, of Cleveland and Mr. Ronald Laxton and the late Mrs. Cecelia Orman of Memphis, Tennessee. Chantz also attended Mississippi State University and is employed with the family business A&A Muffler in Cleveland.

The two were engaged on August 13, 2022. The marriage will take place on October 21, 2023, at First Presbyterian Church with a reception to follow at The Cotton House in Cleveland, Mississippi.

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ENGAGEMENTS

Courtney Anna Gagliano & William Sykes Moak Mr. and Mrs. Charles Joseph Gagliano, junior, of Hattiesburg announce the engagement of their daughter, Courtney Anna Gagliano, to William Sykes Moak, son of The Honorable and Mrs. Robert Warren Moak of Madison.

The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Mrs. Bernice Margueritte Rawls of Hattiesburg and the late Mr. John Donald Rawls, senior, of Hattiesburg. She is also the granddaughter of the late Ms. Betty Bufkin Gagliano of Metairie, Louisiana, and Mrs. Doris Hatla Gagliano of Hattiesburg and the late Mr. Charles Joseph Gagliano, senior, of Hattiesburg. The bridegroom is the grandson of Mrs. Eloise Dean Cumbaa of Greenville and the late Colonel Noel Thomas Cumbaa of Greenville. He is also the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Monette Moak of Bogue Chitto.

Miss Gagliano attended Presbyterian Christian School and received a bachelor of science in kinesiology at Mississippi State University in 2016, where she participated as a violinist in the Philharmonia Orchestra and graduated cum laude. She earned her doctor of physical therapy in 2019 at Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina. Gagliano is a licensed physical therapist practicing with Prisma Health in Greenville, South Carolina.

Moak attended Jackson Academy before receiving his degree in biomedical sciences from Auburn University in 2016. While at Auburn, he served as rush chairman and vice president of alumni relations with Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity. He then earned his doctor of physical therapy in 2020 from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri. He is a licensed physical therapist practicing with Physical Rehabilitation Group in Greenville, South Carolina.

The couple was engaged in Robbinsville, North Carolina, on July 23, 2022, at Maple Springs Observatory overlooking the Smoky Mountains. The two are set to exchange the vows of marriage on May 20, 2023, in New Orleans, Louisiana, at St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church, with a reception to follow. After the wedding, the couple will make their home in Greenville, South Carolina.

Kara BreAnn Krivanec & Jason Lloyd Hunter Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Frank Krivanec III of Biloxi are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Kara BreAnn Krivanec to Jason Lloyd Hunter, son of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Orbrey Hunter of Glen Allan.

Kara recently obtained a master’s of science in nursing with a family nurse practitioner specialization from Texas Women’s University and plans to begin practicing.

Jason is a fourth-generation row crop farmer on his family farm, Hunter Farms, in Glen Allan.

The couple will exchange vows on February 25, 2023, at St. Joesph Catholic Church in Greenville. A reception will follow at Linden Plantation.

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ENGAGEMENTS

Frances Elizabeth Varner & William Christopher Hardman

Mr. and Mrs. Henry Rogers Varner, junior, of Merigold are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Frances Elizabeth Varner, to William Christopher Hardman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Christopher Hardman of Cleveland.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Francis Anthony Ola of Greenwood and the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Rogers Varner of Cleveland. Frances earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mississippi where she was a member of the Chi Omega Fraternity. She is also an alumni of Delta State University where she earned a master’s degree in business administration. Frances is the general manager of McCartys Pottery in Merigold.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Martha Thomas Weise and the late Mr. Herbert Rudolph Weise of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Mr. Louis Adkins Hardman and the late Mrs. Guyla Hardman of Helena, Arkansas. William is a graduate of Mississippi State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in agronomy and a master’s degree in entomology. He was also a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. He is a sales consultant with Simplot Grower Solutions in Indianola.

The couple plans to exchange vows on November 4, 2023, at First United Methodist Church in Merigold with a reception to follow at the Warehouse in Cleveland.

232 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

2023 wedding registry S Elizabeth Faith HUDDLESTON Katherine Louise ANDERTON & Justin Williams BERRY .....................178 & Christopher Landon PIERONI ..........197

Keely McAdams SHEARER & Henry Rogers VARNER III................218

Sarah Jordan BALLINGER Georgia Hart SMITH Mary Parker JANOUSH & Matthew Brayden BRANTLEY .........179 & William Ryan REDDITT ...................198 & Wynand SMIT.....................................219 Shelby Claire BALLINGER Elizabeth Chandler SWINDLE Julia Virginia KNIGHT & Hayes Archer MILLER .....................180 & Justin Ryan ELDRIDGE ...................200 & William Lindsey BRANTON, junior ..220 Caroline Belle COLQUETT & Zachary Paul PEREIRA....................182 Patricia Lindsey LAMENSDORF & Jean Columbus BLACKMON ............202 Mary Olga COOKE & Harper Rivers Myres IV.....................181 Mary Caylen LANG & William Cass HUDDLESTON, junior...204 Olivia Grace CRUMPTON & Michael Louis AGOSTINELLI ..........184 Callie Lane LYON & Noah Carlton SLACK .......................206 Hannah Elizabeth DAVIS & William Hunter LAMB ......................185 Sarah Darrington MICKLOS Mary Louisa ELY & Charles Raymond GILIOMEE...........186 Danielle ESPOSITO & Michael PORTNER ...........................188 Keelyn Christine FREY & Cole Everett CARSON.......................190 Susan Shel GARY & Berlin Madison PERKINS .................191 Ellen Linville GRAVES & John Christian CLEMENTS..............192

& Lawrence Reed WAGNER.................205 Christina Nicole MORRIS & Embry Rain LONG ...........................208 Toni-Lynn NELSON & Clayton Maxwell HORTON...............210 Mary Elizabeth PACE & James Bryan TURNER......................212 Peyton Brooke PERRY & Preston Wade WICKER.....................213

Sara Jean TURNER & Thomas Fount BEARD, junior ..........221 Sarah Overton VARNER & Dillon Austin JONES.........................222 Barrett Elizabeth WRIGHT & Austin Michael ROGERS...................224 Neely Elizabeth YOUNG & Adam Parker ELLIS .........................226 Bernadette Maria ZRENNER & William Kethley DOSSETT, junior....228

ENGAGEMENTS Mari Micci BRAMUCHI & Daniel Wager SHANNON..................232 Ana Parker DAVIS & Nicolas Chantz ARBUCKLE .............232 Courtney Anna GAGLIANO & William Sykes MOAK........................233

Brittany Leigh QUAYLE & Preston Daniel BOWEN ....................214 Kara BreAnn KRIVANEC & Jason Lloyd HUNTER ......................233 Anna Ryan RAGLAND Katherine Elizabeth HOLBROOK & Charles Robinson WARLICK ............193 & Ben Hollis ANGEL ............................216 Frances Elizabeth VARNER & William Christopher HARDMAN ......234 Ali Michelle SANTUCCI Makensie Lee HOLLAND & Benjamin Guy FRAZER....................196 & Reagan Connor SHEPPEARD...........215 Caroline Wise HANNON & Rhett Benjamin SHAFFETT, junior ....194

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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FOOD

6 Lemon Desserts

To Enjoy All Spring Long

L

EMON IS VIBRANT, TART, AND DELICIOUS IN ALL MANNER OF DISHES—BUT IT IS MAGICAL AS THE STAR OF THESE SPRING DESSERTS.

The classic citrus fruit shines in the recipes we’ve gathered from our own archives as well as Ina Garten’s iconic Lemon Bars recipe. They’re the perfect choice for Easter gatherings, or any spring celebration!

236 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

PHOTOS OBTAINED FROM DIGITAL MEDIA SOURCES

BY CINDY COOPWOOD

LIMONCELLO NO-BAKE CHEESECAKE 2 ⅓ 8 8 ½ ¼ ¼

cups graham cracker crumbs cup unsalted butter, melted ounces cream cheese, softened ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed cup sour cream teaspoon pure vanilla extract cup Limoncello

Preheat oven oven to 350 degrees. Spray 9-inch glass pie plate with cooking spray. Stir together crust ingredients. Press firmly and evenly in bottom of pie plate, or into a muffin tin for individual servings.

Bake 9 minutes. Cool 20 minutes.

In the bowl of your mixer, beat cheesecake ingredients on medium speed until smooth; spoon over crust.

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes prior to serving.

INA GARTEN’S LEMON BARS For the crust ½ ½ 2 ⅛

pound unsalted butter, at room temperature cup granulated sugar cups flour teaspoon kosher salt

For the filling 6 3 2 1 1

SPRING FLING Light and festive, this simple champagne cocktail will add a special touch to your spring brunch, lunch, or evening cocktails before dinner.

1 ounce limoncello Champagne, chilled Lemon peel curls for garnish

Place one curl of lemon peel in each champagne flute. When ready to serve, pour limoncello into each flute, then fill the glasses with chilled champagne. Enjoy!

extra-large eggs at room temperature cups granulated sugar tablespoons grated lemon zest (4 to 6 lemons) cup freshly squeezed lemon juice cup flour Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

For the crust, cream the butter and sugar until light in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.

Combine the flour and salt and, with the mixer on low, add to the butter until just mixed.

Dump the dough onto a wellfloured board and gather into a ball. Flatten the dough with floured hands and press it into a 9x13x2-inch baking sheet, building up a ½-inch edge on all sides. Chill.

Bake the crust for 15 to 20 minutes, until very lightly browned. Let cool on a wire rack.

Leave the oven on.

For the filling, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and flour. Pour over the crust and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the filling is set. Let cool to room temperature.

Cut into triangles and dust with confectioners’ sugar.

– from the cookbook Ina Garten Barefoot Contessa Parties!

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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LEMON CUPCAKES WITH LEMON CREAM CHEESE ICING A dollop of delicious lemony cream cheese icing on these simple lemon cupcakes elevates them for the perfect springtime indulgence.

Cupcakes 4 egg whites ⅔ cup sour cream ⅓ cup oil ¾ cup buttermilk 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 package lemon cake mix

Frosting 8 oz package of cream cheese, softened ¼ cup butter, softened 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 heaping teaspoon lemon zest dash of salt 1 to 2 teaspoons lemon juice to taste 2 to 3 tbsp milk, as needed for consistency

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Prep cupcake tins with 24 paper liners.

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg whites, sour cream, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla. Add the cake mix, and mix until just combined (be careful not to overmix). Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake tins, filling ⅔ full.

Bake 20 to 22 minutes, or until the tops spring back when touched lightly, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

To make the frosting, cream butter and cream cheese together in a medium bowl, beating with an electric mixer until well blended and smooth. Add the powdered sugar one cup at a time on low speed, until just combined and all the sugar is mixed in. Add in the vanilla extract, lemon zest and juice, and salt. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula, while mixing. Frost the cupcakes (when completely cool) with the cream cheese frosting. Recipe may be easily doubled if needed for additional cupcakes or if frosting a cake.

Tip: If you plan on using the frosting for piping decorations, it is best to allow it to cool in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour.

238 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

LEMON CURD SOUR CREAM CAKE This cake is over the top. Dense, rich, lemony-delicious and gorgeous, it’s totally worth the effort and calories!

Cake 2 sticks plus 2 tablespoons butter, softened 2 tablespoons grated lemon rind 2 cups sugar 6 eggs 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup sour cream 1 10-ounce jar lemon curd

Frosting 12 ounces cream cheese, softened 6 tablespoons butter, softened 3 cups powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 heaping teaspoon lemon zest 3 teaspoons lemon juice Lemon peel curls for garnish

Tip: For the cleanest slice, refrigerate the frosted

cake for 30 to 40 minutes to set. Allow the cake to come close to room temperature again before serving for the fullest flavor.

WILL JACKS

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Using a stand or hand-held mixer, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add the lemon rind.

Add eggs separately, beating and scraping down the sides after each.

In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt together.

Alternately, add in sifted ingredients and sour cream, with mixer on a lower setting. Blend until batter is smooth. Pour batter evenly into two cake pans lined with parchment paper and sprayed well with non-stick spray. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until lightly browned on top. Use a toothpick to check for doneness. Allow cakes to partially cool in pans, then remove to a wire rack.

In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Then with the mixer on medium, add the vanilla, lemon juice, lemon zest, and the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until smooth and creamy or desired consistency.

Place one cake on your serving dish, and add a generous dollop of frosting as filling. Spread frosting, allowing a little to spill over the edges. Pour lemon curd on top of frosting, also nudging toward the edges. (We first poured the curd in a small bowl, stirring to make it more easily spreadable.) Top with the second cake and add remaining frosting to the top, again spreading to spill over edges in places, but leaving the side of cake naked. Garnish with lemon peel curls.

KEY-LIME TARTS Make your favorite recipe or try this little shortcut for the perfect dessert to serve at your luncheon!

Spray a 2-inch biscuit or cookie cutter of your choice, depending on the size serving you want. Press the cutter into the pie and twist gently to pull out. The size of your pie and your cutter will determine how many servings you can get from each pie. This pie happened to have some topping dolloped on it, which I spread out to make a thin layer. Simply top with additional whipped cream and garnish with lime twists. DM

WILL JACKS

1 large ready-made key lime pie whipped, sweetened heavy cream fresh lime twists for garnish

DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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240 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

A Community of Specialized Medical Care UMMC Grenada offers specialized medical care backed by the state’s only academic medical center to Grenada and surrounding communities.

You and your family can receive expert care, without a long drive, in a range of services and specialties including: • • • •

Cancer Care Urology General Surgery Orthopaedics

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• Pediatrics • Pulmonology • Women’s Care

umc.edu/grenada

In addition to specialty care, we also offer primary care in Grenada and Greenwood. For more information, call 662.227.7000.

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YARD & GARDEN

DO’S and DON’TS of Spring Landscaping

BY BRANTLEY SNIPES

L

Brantley Snipes, PLA, MLA, MHS: owner of Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design, Inc.

ast month’s freeze took a major toll on lawns and landscapes across the region. However,

there is still hope! With our evergreens, most damage seems to be contained to the leaves, but we won’t know for sure for a few more weeks in some cases. They will probably defoliate and flush back out this spring, so as bad as they may look, don’t prune or cut these shrubs back! Let them regenerate on their own, as most of them will. I’ve worked up some simple do’s and don’ts to address this and a few other questions as we get our yards ready for spring. And remember to have patience—the resiliency of plants is a wonder! DM

DON’T murder your crape myrtle.

Crape myrtles are trees, not shrubs. Do not cut these trees back to the trunks.

Instead remove all limbs and stems smaller than your thumb, and any overlapping branches within the canopy.

Remember that the purpose of pruning is to allow water and light to access the interior of a plant’s existing canopy.

Example of bad pruning.

DO cut back broad leaf evergreens, such as aspidistra and holly fern. Broadleaf evergreens which have brown spots or brown leaves will not grow back green. Remove these leaves from the plant and allow for new growth.

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The resiliency of plants is amazing. A fern still producing tender spring fronds, and a Rose Creek Abelia putting new leaves out after losing them in the Christmas freeze!

More Tips!

◼ DO make sure that old leaves and mulch are not built up and compounded at the base of a plant. Rake back ornamental matter from the base of the plant to allow for better air flow. Add some slow release fertilizer to create optimal growing conditions for damaged shrubs.

◼ DO cut your liriope and ornamental grasses back.

◼ DO prune your boxwoods if

DON’T prune your evergreen shrubs yet. Wait for your winter-damaged shrubs to put back out before pruning or cutting them back. Once they are flush with new growth, you can remove the dead limbs, which will be clearly visible.

they have not defoliated.

Remove the top third of the plant canopy to allow light to access the interior of the plant. It will not be pretty at first.

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PRENTISS, MISSISSIPPI PHOTOS COLLECTION, M117, COURTESY OF DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES, CLEVELAND, MISSISSIPPI

HISTORY

The town of Prentiss in the 1800s was a hub for steamboats and barges passing between Memphis and Vicksburg.

Uncovering Long Forgotten

Delta Settlements Early Bolivar County town disappeared into the river over the years

BY KEITH WOOD 244 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

he earliest settlements of Bolivar County can be traced back over 200 years ago, although remnants of these once-populated areas have withered away over the decades. Concordia was the largest settlement in the county shortly before the Civil War and it was located Northwest of present-day Gunnison. It was founded sometime between 1840-1850 and continued to grow.

T

EUGENE LEFTWICH COLLECTION, M042, COURTESY OF DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES, CLEVELAND, MISSISSIPPI

three miles to the east of the settlement, and combined with a loss According to A Postal History of Missi ssippi: Stampless Period, of commerce and the population loss of the earlier yellow fever 1799-1860, volume II, by Bruce C. Oakley Jr., the first post office epidemic, the town was abandoned, with most of its population in that area was established as Victoria on June 1, 1840. The moving to a railroad station located on A. N. Gunnison’s plantation. postmaster at that time was William M. Davidson. It was later reConcordia was at one time the established as Concordia on hub of activity in the county, but it December 21, 1859, with Robert wasn’t the oldest settlement.

M. Wilson appointed as The town of Prentiss was settled postmaster. This is the oldest sometime around 1800. It was official building on record. located directly across the Mississippi Concordia was formed when River from Napoleon, Ark., and was Carson’s Landing and a first named Indian Point, then prosperous new landing, located a Wellington. slight distance to the south, Prentiss was cited to be a “faircombined together. Sometime sized village” that consisted of several around 1865, the settlement was stores, a church, a post office and a incorporated as a town. courtroom.

The bustling little community A relic of old Concordia. The only building left standing in the At the end of the War of 1812, a is said to have been a wild place to once thriving river town until it was demolished to make way for number of soldiers and civilians live. There were gambling halls, a Mississippi levee berm. going back up the Mississippi River saloons and crime was listed as from New Orleans stopped and rampant. There was also a stayed in Prentiss, later deciding to newspaper, a hotel, a Methodist settle there permanently. Shortly and Episcopal Church, as well as after, the port at the settlement a Baptist Church that later served became one of the largest stops for as a school house, and what is steamboats and barges between now known as the Cora Arnold Memphis and Vicksburg.

Burying Ground. Information in In 1856, Prentiss was declared the History of Bolivar County provided county seat, and a courthouse and

by Lavinia S. Pullman, listed “Sol jail were constructed on the land side Cohen, an English Jew, and one of the levee, while the village itself of the best known men in was on the river side.

Northwest Mississippi” as the last The old Wilson home in Concordia as it looked in the town’s The little town thrived well until mayor of the settlement. heyday.

1863, when it was burned to the During the Civil War, ground by Union soldiers under the warships were reported passing to command of General George T. the south and releasing cannon Sherman during his march on the fire at some locations, but none at South. Later, in 1865, while Concordia. No troops were ever reconstruction of the settlement was reported landing, nor were any underway, the Mississippi River military skirmishes listed. changed its course, submerging Despite its rapid growth and Prentiss and tearing away a large early success, in 1879 a yellow section of the land. It remained fever outbreak hit the city. The underwater until a low water period results were devastating. Records Picture of teachers and school children at an early school held in 1954 exposed the courthouse and list forty percent of the in Concordia Masonic Lodge building in Gunnison. some other buildings. Many people population succumbing to the plundered the structures, though nothing of any real value was illness. Entire families were wiped out and lost to history. found. When the river rose again in June of that same year, Prentiss The building of the Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad in 1889 disappeared once again into the muddy Mississippi.DM was the beginning of the end for Concordia. The railroad passed

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EVENTS Ain’t Too Proud, The Life and Times of the Temptations, March 7-12

Buddy Guy Damn Right Farewell Tour, March 14

FESTIVALS, MUSIC & FUN THINGS TO DO March 1–5,

Oxford

March 9–12

Oxford Film Festival

Disney on Ice: Into the Magic

visitoxfordms.com

Landers Center disneyonice.com

March 2, 7:30 pm

Southaven

March 25, 1 pm

Jackson March 12,

Thalia Mara Hall thaliamarahall.net

New Edition: The Legacy Tour w/ Keith Sweat, Guy and Special Guest Tank

March 25, 7 pm

Fedex Forum fedexforum.com

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Jackson

Leanne Morgan “Just Getting Started” Tour

March 14, 7:30 pm

Memphis

Buddy Guy Damn Right Farewell Tour

Thalia Mara Hall thaliamarahall.net

March 3, 7:30 pm

Memphis

Downtown Jackson halsstpaddysparade.com

Legacy Reunion of Earth, Wind, and Fire

March 3, 7 pm

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Cleveland Vicksburg

March 30, 7:30

Ford Center for the Performing Arts fordcenter.org

March 18, 10 am

River City Toyfest

March 29, 7:30 pm

Vicksburg Convention Center rivercitytoyfest.com

Menopause The Musical

March 18, 7:30 pm

Ameristar Casino visitvicksburg.com

The Magic of Michael Grandinetti Live

April 1

Halloran Centre orpheum-memphis.com

World Catfish Festival

Memphis March 18, 8 pm

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Patti Labelle

April 1, 7 pm

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

The Price is Right Live

Vicksburg March 23

Vicksburg National Military Park raceroster.com

John Crist: The Emotional Support Tour

April 1, 7:30

Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

Journey: Freedom Tour 2023

Memphis March 24

Gary Allan

April 4

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Horseshoe Casino caesars.com/tunica

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. – A Celebration of the Music of Aretha Franklin

Zach Williams: A Hundred Highways Tour Thalia Mara Hall thaliamarahall.net

246 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Jackson

March 24

Memphis

John Crist - Emotional Support Tour Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Memphis

Fedex Forum fedexforum.com

Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations

March 8, 7 pm

Tunica

Memphis

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Run Thru History 10-K

March 7–12

Cleveland

Belzoni

Downtown Belzoni belzonims.com/catfishfest.htm

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

March 4, 8 am

Memphis

Memphis

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Miles Flatt

March 3–5

Memphis

Oxford

The Pirates of Penzance New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players

Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

Vicksburg

Memphis

Black Men Missing

Hairspray

March 3, 8 pm

Jackson

40th Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade and Festival

Cleveland

Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

April 4–9

Chicago Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Memphis

CLASSIC AMERICAN QUALITY.

Spicy Cornmeal Crusted Simmons Catfish

By Chef Steven Goff at the Delta Supper Club at Hopson Plantation - Clarksdale, MS.

FRESH FROM THE POND TO YOUR PLATE. SIMMONSCATFISH.COM DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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April 5, 7 pm

Jackson

April 22, 6 pm

Hernando

Michael Nelson

World Ballet Series: Cinderella

19th Annual Mudbug Bash

Vaulting Ambition

Thalia Mara Hall thaliamarahall.net

Downtown Hernando palmerhome.org

March 5, 2 pm: Novel, Memphis

April 7, 8:30 pm

Memphis

Straight Jokes! No Chaser Comedy Tour Fedex Forum fedexforum.com

April 8, 2 pm

Memphis

Harlem Globetrotters

Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium visitoxfordms.com

Brandon

Koe Wetzel

Jackson

Thalia Mara Hall operams.org

April 24–25, 8 pm

Brandon Amphitheater brandonamphitheater.com

20th Annual Juke Joint Festival

Memphis

Southaven

Landers Center landerscenter.com

Memphis

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

April 26, 8 pm Greenville

Driving Miss Daisy

Fedex Forum fedexforum.com

Delta Stage Theater Deltastage.com

April 27, 7:30 pm Leland

The Mockingbird Songwriters Music Festival Gin @ Dunleith steveazar.com

April 14–16

Memphis

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

April 15

Cleveland

The House Where My Soul Lives: The Life of Margaret Walker

Downtown Cleveland crosstiefestival.com

April 20–22

Tunica

Tunica Main Street tunicatravel.com

April 28–29

Starkville

April 12, 5:30 pm: Off Square Books, Oxford Charles Frazier

The Trackers April 14, 5 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson Carles Frazier in conversation with John Evans (No Signing)

Tupelo Civic Auditorium nmsymphony.com

Memphis

Janet Jackson: Together Again with Special Guest Ludacris

Ann Fisher-Wirth

Paradise is Jagged April 20, 5 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson

Fedex Forum fedexforum.com

Hernando

The Desoto Arts Festival

Brenda Novak

The Seaside Library April 24, 5 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson Michael Farris Smith

Salvage This World Memphis

Shinedown Fedex Forum fedexforum.com

LITERARY EVENTS C. J. and Zac Zachary

Lewis Black: Off the Rails

Awkward Avocado and the Interrupting Raptor

Graceland Soundstage gracelandlive.com

March 4, 2 pm: Novel, Memphis

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Tupelo

Hernando Courthouse Square desotoartscouncil.com

Fire Station Park starkville.org

April 21, 8 pm

Oxford

Courthouse Square doubledeckerfestival.com

April 29, 8 pm

King Cotton Crawfish Boil

April 21, 7 pm

Maryemma Graham

The House Where My Soul Lives

April 29, 8 pm

Rivergate Festival & Crawfish Alley

April 21, 6 pm

April 11, 5 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson

Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

North MS Symphony Orchestra

Crosstie Arts and Jazz Festival

April 7, 5 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson Maryemma Graham

April 29, 7:30 pm Cleveland

April 1, 1 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson April 3, 6 pm: Novel, Memphis

Memphis

26th Annual Double Decker Arts Festival

Ballet Memphis – Cinderella

Ozark Dogs

Jeannette Walls

The Oak Ridge Boys April 14–15

The Law at Work: A Legal Playbook for Executives and Professionals

Hang the Moon

Lizzo: The Special 2our April 13–16

March 28, 5:30 pm: Off Square Books, Oxford

Eli Cranor

Jill Scott: Who’s Jill Scott 23rd Anniversary Tour

Billy Strings

Sacred Altars: An Artful Journey to Enchantment

April 1, 2 pm: Novel, Memphis

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

April 26, 7:30 pm

Downtown Clarksdale visitclarksdale.com

March 25, 2 pm: Novel, Memphis

Alan G. Crone

John Mellencamp Clarksdale

Memphis Central High Classmates 1959

From Rock Around the Clock to TikTok Anne Strand

Die Fledermaus or the Bat Gets Even!

April 8, 7 pm

April 13, 8 pm

Oxford

Morgan Wallen with Special Guests Hardy, Ernest, Bailey Zimmerman

April 22, 7:30 pm

Fedex Forum fedexforum.com

April 13–16

April 22, 7 pm

Memphis

April 25, 5:30 pm: Off Square Books, Oxford Brooke Schedneck:

Living Theravada: Demystifying the People, Places, and Practices of a Buddhist Tradition April 25, 6 pm: Novel, Memphis

Double Decker Arts Festival FRIDAY, APRIL 28 PRESENTED BY:

ASHLEY MCBRYDE CHAPEL HART THE STEWS

SATURDAY, APRIL 29

MARCUS KING BLACKBERRY SMOKE LISSIE southern avenue

SENSATIONAL BARNES BROTHERS VIEUX FARKA TOURÉ THE MISSISSIPPIANS JAZZ ENSEMBLE

FRE MUSIC &EA FESTIVAL WRTS 100+ ARTITH VENDORS DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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DELTA SEEN

Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi 23rd Annual Crystal Ball Gala on January 21 at The Arena in Southaven Photos by V2 Media and Kaye Schultz Photography

Keith Fulcher, Stacye Trout, Michael and Elizabeth Bellipanni

Patrick Weems, Katelyn Mabus, and Brandon Presley

Judy Kendall, Courtney Booker, Brandyn Skeen, Rosanette Estrada Maldonado, and Leslie Culver

Joseph Dulaney and Toni Bonds with Ameliea and Kara Dulaney

Carol Smith, Angie Freeman, Ricky McIntyre, Brad Moore, and Mark Brown Meredith and Jeremy Park

Keith Fulcher, Mary Thompson, and Billie Walker 250 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Rayanne Kent Hollis, Ashley Stevenson, and Nicole McNulty

Allen Tubbs with Kacy Dixon

Scott and Natasha Hollis

Ben Napier with Marianna and John Fulcher

DELTA SEEN

Colie and Kathy Sanford, Kim and Bobby Chamberlain, with LaDonna Worthing

Ben and Erin Napier with Lynn and Delbert Hosemann

Jason and Ana Banks, Ben and Lindsey Piper, Allen and Amber Palmer, Justin and Laurie Burns, with Kim and Cody Allen

Mary Thompson and Willie Williams

Crystal Ball volunteers

Bryant Trotter with Floyd and Lisa Melton

Becky and Billy Nowell

Keith Fulcher, Mary Thompson, Erin and Ben Napier, with Natasha and Scott Hollis

Gayle and Roger Wicker

Stacye Trout with Laura Beth Sanders DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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DELTA SEEN

Elizabeth Powers and Katherine Redd

Robert and Mia Cole

Bill Allen, McCully Allen, and Kathy Allen

Southern Dedutante Assembly on December 29 at the Greenwood Country Club

Lucy Swayze, Lulu Pedigo, Allison Pillow, and Melissa Meacham

Paul Hurst, Fair Hurst and Bette Fair

Lisa Melton, Kathy Whicker and Lulu Pedigo

Pam Robbins and Kathleen Madden

Cham Trotter and Anne Craig Melton Craig Karlson and Brenda Phillips

Jan and Mike Sturdivant

Romney and Caroline Brock

Katie Dale and Betsy Belk

Anne Craig Melton and Floyd Melton IV

252 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Floyd and Elizabeth Melton

DELTA SEEN

Junior Auxiliary of Clarksdale Charity Ball on January 21 Photos by Hawk Hubbard

Cody and Allison Britt, Anna Brittain Antici, with Kirk and Gabby Antici

Left to right: Elizabeth Grace Fyfe, Katelyn Willis, Katie Flowers, Anna Catherine Smith, Katherine Willis, Mallory Collins, Danni Marie Roach, Francie Caudell, Anna Brittain Antici, Kolby Little, Lauren Newton, Sayra Lineberry, Anna Pritchard, Madison Monfort, and Caitlin Walker

Mileah and Brandon Williams

Moose and Amy Morris

Taylor Fleming, Meri Logan Jackson, Trey and Anna Pritchard and Brooke Fleming

Elizabeth Russell Caroline and Douglas Smith with Eric and Stephanie Patterson and Charity Pitts

Bramlett Young and Kate Dunn

Mary Ann and Steve Ferri

Jennifer and Brandon Walton

Chris and Amanda Mincey

Katie Flowers, Sheri Haynes, Mary Van Haynes, and Emma Clark

Nashly Fausnight and Kolby Little

Caroline and Willis Frazer DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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DELTA SEEN

Eightieth Annual Delta Debutante Ball on December 29, 2022, at the Greenville Golf and Country Club and Delta Supper Club at the Delta Wildlife Museum in Leland on January 27

Margaret Swayze Capocaccia, Alexandra Scott Hollis, Jordan Coleman Lane, William Shattuck Adams II, Elizabeth Bennett Pulver, Emma Lauryn Abide, and Mary Cooper Adams

Jordan Coopwood, Lucy Parks Shackelford, Elizabeth Shackelford, and Joe Kerley

Ainsley Ham, Ally Powell Howarth, Madelynn Maye Stevenson, and Hallee Jourdan

Matthew Burdine and Guy Hovis 254 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

Alexandra Powell Howarth, Lucia Lamar Heiskell, Mary Michael Turner, and Zoey Sandoval Ragan

Alex Janoush, Desira Warrington, and Mary Grace Summers

Taylor Lansden with Stephanie and Nick Derzis

Will Gourlay, Luke, Elizabeth, Lucia, and Mary Paxton Heiskell with Luke Wicker

John and Hayley Lundy

Guy Hovis and Steve Azar

Lori McCloud and Sis Hovis

DELTA SEEN

A Collection of Photos from Delta Magazine Readers

Craig and Cathy Miller Elizabeth Fisher with Greg and Mary Cathy Miller, Betty Robbins, Barrie celebrating Craig’s birthday Anne Narmour Van Cleave and Ginger Farris during Mardi Gras season

Preston Arrington, Farm Bureau Federation President Mike McCormick, Walt Rambo and Strider McCrory at the Sunflower County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting

Melanie Hankins, Ashley Rambo, Amy Arrington, Paisley Judd Williams and Chris Boykin Hart and Kelli Williams

First Annual Daddy-Daughter Duck Hunt: John Montfort Jones, Brian Vanlandingham, Mollie Jones, Grace Vanlandingham, Bea Ayres, Kathleen Ayres, Ann Latham Vanlandingham and Will Ayres

Paula Lindsey, Mark Collie, and Laura Howell

Jeff and Elizabeth Lusk, Jim and Ann Greenlee, Quentin and Ginger Whitwell and Betty Robbins

Sarah Story, Joanna McNeel, Laura Howell, Marie Sanderson, Jordan Perry, and Rebecca Hardy at the 2023 Governor’s Arts Awards

Brian Shilling, John Andy Bown, Aldridge, Manager Bubba Cole, William Nevels, Chris Parks, and John Balducci

Sela Ward and Morgan Freeman at Ground Zero in Clarksdale DELTA MAGAZINE 2023

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Thefinalword Disappearing Shotgun Houses of the Delta

BY DAVID MALATESTA

rowing up in the Mississippi Delta, I spent a lot of time in shotgun houses out in the country. For those unfamiliar with these structures, a shotgun house is basically three rooms with a front and back porch. One can stand at the front door and see through the middle of the house all of the way to the back door.

Therefore, you could shoot a shotgun from the front door and the pellets would go straight out the back door. These houses are also known as a tenant house and you can find a collection of these at the Shack Up Inn a few miles east of Clarksdale on Highway 49.

Growing up, I remember the smell of pine floors and old wood the moment you entered one of these houses. The aroma of corn bread, warm wood burning fireplaces, and kerosene lamps also permeated the air.

A single lightbulb always hung from the ceiling on a braided cord and sparse tables and chairs furnished the rooms. In some houses wallpaper covered the narrow beaded boards. The bedrooms had iron frame beds and cotton mattresses with handmade quilts. The occupants would often take a knife blade and stuff cotton between the cracks in the floors and walls to keep the cold air out.

There was no electricity, insulation, or plumbing in those shotgun houses. People had to go outside and use the outhouse.

The shotgun houses that were prevalent in the Delta were not like the fancy urban cousins that are found in New Orleans today. The authentic shotgun houses of the Mississippi Delta had exterior walls made of board and batten, which is where a narrow thin board covers the crack between the wide boards. Some houses were covered with shiplap which is where one narrow board overlaps the other board

G

David Malatesta grew up in the small town of Shelby, Mississippi. He lives in Cleveland, Mississippi, and enjoys writing and sharing his memories of growing up in the Mississippi Delta.

256 | MARCH/APRIL 2023

in a horizontal fashion. Many shotgun houses were covered with tar paper that had a brown brick pattern. If you had a side room on your shotgun house, you were in high cotton.

The years 1920 to 1950 are the most prolific era of shotgun houses and sharecropping. In the Delta, everything centered around cotton. The owner of the land and the tenant who farmed it shared the cotton crop. This arrangement was not always a fair deal. The cotton picker and minimum wage led to the great migration of farm workers to the north. By the early 1970s, eighty percent of the rural tenant houses were gone. Before this, there was a tenant house on every forty acres of land.

The reason for so many houses was a family could farm and manage forty acres of cotton and a garden.

My grandfather built a shotgun house in 1935 for $500. It was the first tenant house on our farm. The original house was three rooms with a front porch. Years later, we removed one wall and added a bathroom to make a farm office, kitchen, and den. The original walls are made of narrow beadboard pine. The floor is made of oak and the foundation timbers are cypress and they are still in good condition just like the day they were installed.

Tearing down the tenant houses cleaned up the countryside of the Delta, however, it also erased history. Historic preservation in the Delta is starting to catch on with the interest in blues music.

Any opportunity to preserve our past should be utilized to pass on our heritage.

Every shotgun house that was torn down told a story about a Delta family.

By the way, the most famous shotgun house in Mississippi is the home where Elvis Presley and his family once lived in Tupelo. DM

available at

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